One of a pair of portraits of two sisters of the Moult family of Nottinghamshire Arthur William Devis (1712-1787)

The miniature portrait presents a young woman in three-quarter view, set against a dark, indistinct background. She is positioned centrally within an oval frame, its gilded surface adorned with floral motifs at each corner. The composition emphasizes her face and upper torso, suggesting a focus on status and personal identity rather than narrative or landscape elements.
The sitter’s hair is styled in loose curls, characteristic of the late Baroque period, framing a face rendered with careful attention to subtle modeling of light and shadow. Her expression is reserved; a slight inclination of the head and a gentle gaze convey an impression of composure and perhaps a hint of melancholy. The artist has employed delicate brushwork to depict the texture of her skin and the sheen of her clothing.
She wears a gown of pale beige or cream, with elaborate lace detailing at the neckline and sleeves. A vibrant blue sash is draped across her shoulders, drawing attention to the décolletage and adding a touch of color that contrasts with the muted tones of the dress. The ribbons tied around her upper arm are rendered with meticulous detail, highlighting the sitter’s access to fine materials and skilled craftsmanship.
In the upper right corner, partially obscured by the frame, is a heraldic crest or coat of arms – horizontal stripes alternating between white and black, crossed with two swords. This element serves as an indicator of family lineage and social standing, reinforcing the portraits function as a record of identity within a specific aristocratic context.
The overall effect is one of restrained elegance and quiet dignity. The artist’s skill lies in capturing not only physical likeness but also conveying a sense of inner character – a woman poised between youthful beauty and the expectations placed upon her by societal norms. The miniatures small scale suggests it was likely intended for personal use, perhaps as a keepsake or to be carried as part of a jewelry suite, further emphasizing its role in maintaining familial connections and demonstrating social status.