Laura Keene

Thomas Rice Burnham

National Gallery of Art

The image shows a woman in a seated position from the waist up. She is positioned slightly to the side, with her body turned slightly to her right while her head is facing forward. The woman has distinct facial features with arched eyebrows and a subtle expression. Her hair is dark and styled in soft, voluminous curls that frame her face. She is wearing a dark, formal dress with elaborate detailing; the bodice features decorative buttons and patterned fabric panels, while the sleeves and skirt have ornate trim. Over the dress, she wears gloves that reach to her elbows and appear to be made of a shiny material. In her right hand, she holds an object below her eye level, partially visible due to the position of her arm. The background is plain and neutral, drawing focus to the woman in the foreground.