Mrs. Jerathmael Bowers
John Singleton Copley
"Mrs. Jerathmael Bowers" is a portrait painted by John Singleton Copley around 1763. The subject of the painting is Mary Bowers, the wife of Jerathmael Bowers, a prominent Boston merchant. Copley, an American painter known for his realistic and detailed portraits, captures Mrs. Bowers in a fashionable gown, indicative of her social status. The painting is notable for its attention to texture and the use of light, which highlights the sitter's features and attire. Copley's work reflects the growing importance of portraiture in colonial America as a means of asserting social identity. The painting is part of the collection at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Specific details about the commission or the relationship between the artist and the sitter remain unknown.
"Mrs. Jerathmael Bowers" is an oil on canvas portrait created by John Singleton Copley around 1763. The painting depicts a seated woman, identified as Mrs. Bowers, dressed in an elegant gown characterized by its intricate detailing and rich fabric. Her attire features a white bodice with a low neckline, complemented by a flowing blue skirt that adds a sense of movement. The subject's posture is relaxed yet dignified, with her right arm resting on the arm of a chair, while her left hand delicately holds a piece of fabric. Copley employs a soft, naturalistic color palette, enhancing the lifelike quality of the figure. The background is rendered in muted tones, allowing the subject to stand out prominently. The artist's attention to detail is evident in the textures of the fabric and the subtle play of light across the subject's face and attire. The composition is balanced, with the figure positioned centrally, drawing the viewer's focus to her expression and attire. The overall effect conveys a sense of grace and refinement, characteristic of Copley's portraiture.