“Elizabeth Shewell West and Her Son, Raphael” is an oil painting by Benjamin West, representing the Rococo art movement and falling under the genre of portraiture.
The artwork features a tender depiction of a mother, Elizabeth Shewell West, holding her son, Raphael. They are positioned within a circular frame that enhances the intimate quality of the scene. Elizabeth is adorned in a green garment highlighted with golden embroidery, and her hair is elegantly covered by a headscarf. Her expression is serene and slightly smiling as she gazes at the viewer. Her son, Raphael, nestles closely to her, his wide eyes and gentle expression contributing to the emotional depth of the portrait. The use of soft, naturalistic lighting combined with the Rococo emphasis on grace and detail gives the painting a distinguished and sincere atmosphere.