The Portrait of Mary Countess Howe is a stunning oil on canvas painting created by the renowned English artist Thomas Gainsborough in 1760. This magnificent work of art is a prime example of the Rococo style, characterized by its lightness, elegance, and exuberance. The painting measures 244 x 152 cm and is considered one of Gainsborough's most striking and iconic female portraits.

The Subject and Composition

The subject of the painting, Mary Countess Howe, is depicted standing confidently in a landscape setting, with her hand on her hip and gazing directly at the viewer. Her attire is a testament to the fashion of the 1760s, with a pink silk taffeta gown, a transparent fichu edged with bobbin lace, and an embroidered apron of silk gauze or cotton muslin. The painting's composition is notable for its use of a stormy sky and wild landscape setting, which would become a typical feature of Gainsborough's full-length portraits.

Artistic Style and Influences

Gainsborough's style was influenced by the works of Van Dyck, and his avoidance of classical antiquity references in costume was a deliberate choice to capture a true likeness of his sitters. The Portrait of Mary Countess Howe is a testament to Gainsborough's skill as a society portraitist, with its attention to detail and masterful use of color and light.

• The painting is part of the collection at the Holburne Museum in Bath, United Kingdom.
• Gainsborough's works can be found on ArtsDot.com, where you can discover and purchase handmade oil painting reproductions of his masterpieces.
• For more information on Gainsborough and his works, visit Wikipedia.

The Portrait of Mary Countess Howe is a must-see for art enthusiasts and historians alike, offering a glimpse into the life and fashion of 18th-century England. With its stunning composition, exquisite detail, and masterful use of color and light, this painting is a true masterpiece of the Rococo style.
The Portrait of Mary Countess Howe is a significant work in Gainsborough's oeuvre, showcasing his skill as a portraitist and his ability to capture the essence of his subjects. As a handmade oil painting reproduction available on ArtsDot.com, this masterpiece can be appreciated and enjoyed by art lovers around the world.