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John Singleton Copley
Mrs. Isaac Royall (Elizabeth Mackintosh), ca 1767-69 and ca 1777-78
This portrait of Elizabeth Mackintosh Royall by America's foremost colonial portraitist, John Singleton Copley, highlights the importance of "likeness" to early Americans. First completed as a pair with her husband's portrait (Mr. Isaac Royall, Museum of Fine Arms, Boston), it was repainted after the sitter's death and her widower's move to England. In this second rendering, the white ruffles and jewelry were painted over. At the same time, Mrs. Royall's hairstyle was elevated and her costume changed. |