Mrs. Richard Alexander Oswald (Louisa Johnston, ?born about 1760, died 1797)

Mrs. Richard Alexander Oswald (Louisa Johnston) by Sir Henry Raeburn

The painting "Mrs. Richard Alexander Oswald (Louisa Johnston, ?born about 1760, died 1797)" was created by Sir Henry Raeburn in 1798 using oil on canvas. Raeburn, a prominent Scottish portrait painter, is renowned for his ability to capture the character and presence of his sitters with remarkable realism and sensitivity. This work exemplifies Raeburn's skill in rendering texture and light, particularly in the depiction of fabric and skin tones, which contributes to the lifelike quality of the portrait.

Raeburn's portraits are significant for their contribution to the Scottish Enlightenment, reflecting the intellectual and cultural dynamism of the period. His works often feature members of the Scottish elite, providing insight into the social and cultural milieu of late 18th-century Scotland. The painting of Louisa Johnston, completed posthumously, underscores Raeburn's reputation for capturing the essence of his subjects, even when working from memory or secondary sources.

The painting "Mrs. Richard Alexander Oswald (Louisa Johnston, ?born about 1760, died 1797)" by Sir Henry Raeburn, created in 1798, is an oil on canvas portrait that exemplifies Raeburn's adeptness in capturing the elegance and poise of his subjects through a refined use of light and shadow. This work is characteristic of the Scottish Enlightenment period, showcasing Raeburn's skill in portraying the sitter's personality and social status with subtle yet expressive brushwork.