Mrs. Robinson c. 1784

Joshua Reynolds painted this portrait of Mrs. Robinson sometime in the late 18th century. The late 1700s were a pivotal time of social and political upheaval; understanding that context sheds light on Reynolds' work and the position of women in society. Mrs. Robinson, an actress and literary figure, existed in a world in which women had limited agency. Despite these constraints, she carved out a space for herself. Reynolds' portrait captures her likeness but also hints at the complexities of her identity and the male gaze in portraiture. Portraits of women in this era often carried messages about status and virtue, yet in this image Reynolds seems to allow Mrs. Robinson a sense of self-possession. The soft rendering suggests a sensitivity that transcends mere representation. As we contemplate this image, we are invited to reflect on the historical dynamics of representation, gender, and individual expression. We are left to wonder about the untold stories and the complexities of the lives of women like Mrs. Robinson.