Catherine (Halhead) Burton

This portrait shows the newlywed heiress Catherine Burton with a large book on the table beside her and another smaller one in her hand, references to the sitter's well-known intelligence. In addition to these intellectual attributes, Romney also emphasizes her femininity through dramatic effects of light and shadow that call to attention her face, hands, and ruffle-edge bosom. The theatricality of the lighting effects is complemented by the bold red swag of fabric descending at a dynamic angle behind the sitter, which resonates vibrantly against the blue sky.