776 - J. HOPPNER (1758–1810), A graceful portrait of the Duchess of Rutland, 1803, stipple engraving

J. HOPPNER (1758–1810), A graceful portrait of the Duchess of Rutland, 1803, stipple engraving John Hoppner (1758, Whitechapel, London – 1810, London): Elizabeth, Duchess of Rutland, in a classical half-length portrait, 1803, stipple engraving Technique: Stipple engraving on paper Inscription: Signed on the lower part of the printing plate: "Painted by J. Hoppner R. A. | Engraved by C. Wilkin". Date: 1803 Description: This graceful portrait depicts Elizabeth, Duchess of Rutland, as the epitome of feminine elegance around 1800—in a flowing Empire-style dress with a deep V-neckline and a finely gathered fabric band. Her gentle sidelong gaze, nobly modeled face, and loosely tied headband lend the depiction a classically beautiful appearance, inspired by classical models. The virtuoso stippling technique, combined with subtle lighting, emphasizes her attractive aura and makes the print a particularly charming example of British aristocratic portraits from the early 19th century. Person: Duchess Elizabeth Manners, of Rutland (1780–1825, Bottesford, Leicestershire) Keywords: Elizabeth, Duchess of Rutland; Beauty; Female portrait; Empire style; Classicism; 1803; Nobility; Elegance; Half-figure; Portrait of a lady; Headband; Fashion around 1800; Aristocratic grace; Classical ideal; Punctuated stitch; Charles Wilkin; English aristocracy; Noble appearance; Fine features; Decorative; Wall decoration; 19th century; Classicism; Portraits; United Kingdom; Size: Paper: 25.2 cm x 19.5 cm (9.9 x 7.7 in), Image: 21.5 cm x 18.1 cm (8.5 x 7.1 in) Condition: Good condition. Slightly discolored due to age. Although there is foxing along the margins, the motif remains largely unaffected. The printed image is well preserved and shows fine tonal variations.