The artwork titled “Mrs. Humphrey Devereux,” created by John Singleton Copley in 1771, is an oil painting on canvas belonging to the Neoclassicism art movement. Measuring 102 x 81.5 centimeters, the portrait is housed at the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa in Wellington, New Zealand.
The painting features a contemplative older woman, Mrs. Humphrey Devereux, positioned at a wooden table. She rests her chin on her right hand’s fingers as her left arm reclines on the table. The dimly lit background contrasts with the detailed textures and fabric of her attire. Her expression appears introspective, lending gravitas and quiet strength to the portrait. The intricate illumination on her face and clothing exemplifies Copley’s masterful rendering of light and texture.
