Portrait of a Standing Lady 1734

John Vanderbank made this pen and brown ink drawing, "Portrait of a Standing Lady," sometime in the first half of the 18th century. Vanderbank, son of a tapestry weaver, followed in his father's footsteps, but his career took a turn towards portraiture. The woman depicted is a member of the British upper class, evidenced by her elegant dress and poised demeanor. Yet, Vanderbank's sketch feels less like a celebration of wealth and more like an exploration of identity and social role-playing. The loose lines and unfinished quality add an emotional depth, hinting at the complexities beneath the surface. This work invites us to reflect on the constraints and expectations placed upon women of her class. The portrait offers a glimpse into the life of a woman navigating a world defined by rigid social norms. But it is the expressive lines that speak to the individual, suggesting a quiet strength and resilience in the face of societal expectations.