The artwork, titled “Portrait of Queen Charlotte” and created by Thomas Gainsborough in 1781, is an oil painting on canvas. It is an exemplary piece from the Rococo art movement and falls under the genre of portraiture. This distinguished painting currently resides within the Royal Collection at Buckingham Palace, London, UK.
The portrait features Queen Charlotte dressed in an ornate and elaborate gown, characteristic of the Rococo style with its delicate and decorative elements. The queen is portrayed in a dignified stance, holding a folding fan, with a small dog at her feet, symbolizing loyalty and companionship. The background is carefully rendered, evoking a sense of depth with its interplay of light and shadow, enhancing the subject’s regal presence. The luxurious setting and exquisite detail in the fabric of her attire reflect the opulence associated with the period and the subject’s high social status. The use of light pastel colors and the overall soft, yet detailed treatment underscore the refined elegance typical of Gainsborough’s portraiture.
