Mrs. William Allen
1756
oil
From the collection of Detroit Institute of Arts
1756
oil
From the collection of Detroit Institute of Arts
The painting depicts a woman in a red dress with white lace trim and a black bow at her waist. She wears a white cap with lace edges, and her hands are clasped in front of her. The background is a dark brown color. The woman's attire and hairstyle suggest a formal portrait from the 18th century. Her expression is serene, and her posture conveys a sense of elegance. This portrait is a fine example of 18th-century American art, and to learn more about the artist's style and techniques, you can explore the works of John Hesselius.