Sarah Siddons as Lady Macbeth

The famed actress Sarah Siddons (1755–1831) was closely associated with the role of Lady Macbeth, which she played several times. This drawing may show the scene in Shakespeare’s play when Lady Macbeth feigns distress after Macduff informs her of King Duncan’s murder, which she committed in conspiracy with her husband. While other actresses emphasized Lady Macbeth’s villainy or insanity, Siddons portrayed the character with more depth and nuance. Cosway depicts the actress with pleading eyes and a furrowed brow, capturing the dramatic intensity Siddons brought to the character.