Miss Elizabeth Dalrymple 

Henry Raeburn painted Miss Elizabeth Dalrymple with oil on canvas. He used traditional, finely ground pigments suspended in oil, applied in layers to create a likeness. The textures of the oil paint, from the smooth skin tones to the rougher brushwork of the background, influence the picture's appearance. The canvas support also plays a role, its weave subtly affecting the paint surface. This portrait represents a meticulous, time-consuming process, where Raeburn captured the sitter's likeness and status. There’s also the labor involved in the textiles depicted, like her delicate lace trim and the fine weave of her dress. This hints at the economic systems and social hierarchies that underpin the very act of portraiture. By considering these elements, we can fully appreciate the painting's meaning, challenging the traditional separation between fine art and craft.