Hugh Douglas Hamilton
, Irish, 1740-1808
Title
Portrait of a Lady in a Blue DressDate1770
MediumPastel and graphite on paper
Dimensions
27.3 x 22.1 cm
Signedlower left: H.D. Hamilton Del. 1770
Credit LinePurchased, 1912
Object numberNGI.6087
DescriptionThe young girl wears a striped dress with tight bodice decorated with ribbons, a type fashionable in 1770s. Her elevated hairstyle, with partial ringlets, is topped by an indoor cap. The placing of the figure in the picture space, the light colouring and grey background are typical features of Hamilton's portraits which date to between 1770 and 1772. The features of the sitter are similar to those of Maria, Duchess of Gloucester in another pastel by Hamitlon which is also signed and dated 1770. It is possible that this unknown lady is one of the Duchess's younger sisters. Hamilton shows particular finesse in his portrayal of the details of hair and face and engages our attention through the sitter's direct expression.ProvenancePurchased, Shepherd Bros., London, 1912 Exhibition HistoryIrish Portraits 1660-1860, National Gallery of Ireland, Dublin, 14 August - 14 October 1969; National Portrait Gallery, London, 30 October 1969 - 4 January 1970; Ulster Museum, Belfast, 28 January - 9 March 1970