Mrs. Sylvanus Bourne 1766

"Mrs. Sylvanus Bourne" is a portrait painting by the American artist John Singleton Copley, painted in 1766. The painting depicts Mrs. Bourne, a prominent figure in Boston society, seated in an armchair, her hand resting on a closed book. Her refined attire and calm demeanor convey her social standing and inner strength, reflecting Copley's mastery of portraiture and the social conventions of the era. The painting is notable for its realistic details, especially the textures of her dress and the subtle play of light on her face. Copley's ability to capture the personality of his subjects is evident in this work, which has solidified its place within the canon of American portraiture.