Garret Morphy
, Irish, c.1650-1716
Title
Portrait of Rose O'Neill, later Mrs Nicholas WoganDatec.1695
MediumOil on canvas
Dimensions
45 x 36 cm
Credit LinePurchased, 1976
Object numberNGI.4149
Label TextThe stark contrast between the sitter’s pale skin and the dark background is characteristic of Morphy's work. The effect is softened by the wisps of her hair and lace ruffle of her chemise, which are deftly described. The raised hairstyle, shown in this picture and its pendant (NGI.4148), is similar to those worn at the court of France in around 1694-95. The O'Neills are known to have stayed in France after the Battle of the Boyne, probably at the court of the exiled James II at St Germain-en-Laye.