Portrait of a Woman, Called Maria Taylor Byrd

The painting depicts a woman seated, wearing a long, shiny gray dress with a low V-shaped neckline and short sleeves. The dress has a gathered section across the chest and falls in folds to the floor. A blue shawl or cloak is draped over her right shoulder and arm. Her hair is styled in an updo, and she holds a small cup in her right hand. Her left hand rests on her lap, holding a piece of fabric. The background features a dark, mottled brown color with some lighter areas suggesting foliage or clouds. The overall style is formal, suggesting it is a portrait.