The artwork titled “Mrs. Joshua Henshaw II,” executed by the esteemed artist John Singleton Copley circa 1772, is a distinguished oil on canvas painting. Belonging to the Neoclassicism movement, this portrait, measuring 77 by 56 centimeters, is currently held in a private collection.
In the artwork, John Singleton Copley portrays a young woman, believed to be Mrs. Joshua Henshaw II, with a poised and serene demeanor. The sitter’s expression is calm and slightly reserved, suggesting a quiet confidence. She is depicted wearing a pink silk gown adorned with lace, accentuated by a deep blue fabric draped over her arm. The intricate detailing of the lace and the richness of the fabric showcase Copley’s mastery in rendering textures and materials. The background is dark and unobtrusive, focusing the viewer’s attention entirely on the subject, while the soft, diffused lighting highlights the subtle features of her face and hands. The overall composition exudes elegance and refinement, characteristic of the Neoclassicism art movement.
