Janet Law 

Janet Law was painted by Henry Raeburn in the late 18th or early 19th century using oil on canvas, a very traditional medium for portraiture at the time. The visible brushstrokes give us a sense of how Raeburn constructed the image. The background is loosely defined, drawing attention to the figure. The folds of Janet's dress, for instance, are rendered with fluid strokes, and are imbued with the skill and labor that went into its making. The fabric drapes softly and loosely, and is painted with many layers to create depth, texture, and form, accentuating her status and wealth. Raeburn skillfully conveys not only Janet's likeness but also her social standing. This portrait is a testament to the enduring appeal and societal importance of oil painting, reflecting the culture of labor, class, and consumption in Scotland during the artist’s lifetime. It encourages us to consider not only the subject but the social context in which this artwork was made.