The artwork, titled “Mr. Robert Grafton and Mrs. Mary Partridge Wells Grafton,” was created by the artist Benjamin West in the year 1773. This oil on canvas piece, measuring 101.92 x 127.95 cm, is a notable example of the Rococo art movement. As a portrait, it depicts the subjects, Mr. Robert Grafton and Mrs. Mary Partridge Wells Grafton, prominently and is currently part of a private collection.
The scene in the artwork portrays Mr. and Mrs. Grafton in a domestic setting. Mr. Grafton stands to the left, dressed in outdoor attire that suggests a sense of preparedness and dignity, while Mrs. Grafton is seated to the right, elegantly clothed in a voluminous dress adorned with ribbons. Mrs. Grafton holds a book, indicating literacy and leisure, and her gaze is directed slightly upwards, imparting a serene and contemplative tone to the painting. An arrangement of flowers in a vase adds a touch of natural beauty and color to the scene. A faithful dog lies at Mr. Grafton’s feet, further emphasizing the domestic tranquility and companionship. The backdrop includes lush drapery and a view of an expansive landscape beyond a window, enhancing the sense of space and depth in the composition. The use of light and shadow highlights the figures, imbuing them with a lifelike presence characteristic of West’s style.
