Jane Maxwell (c.1749–1812), Duchess of Gordon, Wife of the 4th Duke of Gordon, with her Son, George Duncan (1770–1836), Marquess of Huntly, Later 5th Duke of Gordon 1778

George Romney painted "Jane Maxwell, Duchess of Gordon, with her Son" using oil on canvas. At first glance, the eye is drawn to the creamy whites of the Duchess's dress, which contrasts subtly with the darker, muted tones of her son's attire and the background. The composition is carefully structured; Romney uses a pyramidal arrangement, anchoring the figures with the architectural elements behind them. Notice how the soft, flowing lines of the drapery and the landscape create a sense of movement and lightness. Romney's brushstrokes are loose yet controlled, capturing the textures of fabric and skin with remarkable sensitivity. The contrast in the textures, from the sheen of the silk to the smoothness of skin, enhances the visual interest of the piece. The Duchess's pose, with her hand delicately touching her face, conveys an air of refined elegance. The contrast between the foreground and background creates a dialogue between the individuals and their environment. Ultimately, Romney's painting is not just a portrait of a woman and her son; it is a carefully constructed study in form, line, and color that encapsulates the aesthetic values of its time.