Maria, 'A Sentimental Journey' by Laurence Sterne 1777

"Maria, 'A Sentimental Journey' by Laurence Sterne" (1777) by Joseph Wright of Derby is a portrait of a young woman seated in a landscape, likely inspired by the novel of the same name by Laurence Sterne. The woman, dressed in white and leaning against a tree, appears lost in thought, while her dog sits beside her. The soft light and peaceful landscape create a melancholic mood, emphasizing the sense of introspection and longing. Wright's characteristic use of light and shadow creates a dramatic effect, enhancing the emotional depth of the scene. This painting, now in a private collection, reflects Wright's artistic approach to capturing the human experience, which distinguished him as a leading figure in 18th-century British art.