Catherine (Halhead) Burton

Maker George Romney (British, 1734-1802)

SitterSitter: Catherine (Halhead) Burton (British)

ClassificationsPAINTINGS

Date1789

Mediumoil on canvas

Dimensions36 11/16 x 28 1/2 in. (93.2 x 72.4 cm.)

DescriptionSeated half-length, the sitter is portrayed in three-quarters right, wearing a white dress with frilled collar and double-puff elbow sleeves and a blue sash. In her right hand is a small book, while a larger one is on a table beside her.

Credit LineThe Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens

Status

On view

Label TextThis portrait shows the newlywed heiress Catherine Burton with a large book on the table beside her and another smaller one in her hand, references to the sitter's well-known intelligence. In addition to these intellectual attributes, Romney also emphasizes her femininity through dramatic effects of light and shadow that call to attention her face, hands, and ruffle-edge bosom. The theatricality of the lighting effects is complemented by the bold red swag of fabric descending at a dynamic angle behind the sitter, which resonates vibrantly against the blue sky.

Bibliography

British paintings at the Huntington

Object number25.17