Portret van Susan O'Brien 1772 - 1775

James Watson produced this mezzotint titled ‘Portret van Susan O’Brien’ during the late 18th century. The portrait immediately draws you in with its intimate composition and subtle chiaroscuro. Susan O’Brien is framed within a strong circular form, which creates both a sense of enclosure and a focal point, emphasizing her contemplative gaze. The circular frame isn't merely a decorative element; it acts as a visual signifier, playing with the conventions of portraiture. Watson destabilizes the traditional portrait by encasing Susan in this geometric shape, challenging the viewer to consider her not just as an individual but as a constructed representation. The soft gradations of light and shadow, achieved through the mezzotint technique, invite a deeper look. This is more than a likeness; it is a study in form and representation, inviting ongoing interpretation and reflection on the structures that shape our perceptions.