Aphra Behn Peter Lely

The portrait presents a woman in a three-quarter view, her gaze directed towards the viewer with a directness that suggests both confidence and perhaps a touch of challenge. The background is dark and indistinct, drawing immediate attention to the subjects face and upper body. A muted palette dominates; earthy browns and ochres form the backdrop and are echoed in the rich fabric of her gown.
The woman’s attire is noteworthy. She wears a sumptuous garment of deep orange-brown silk, layered with a lighter, cream-colored chemise that peeks from beneath the outer sleeves. The neckline is low, revealing a portion of her décolletage – a detail indicative of the periods fashion and potentially signaling a certain degree of social freedom or independence. A single decorative fastening secures the gown at the shoulder, adding a subtle flourish to the overall presentation.
Her hair is styled in loose waves, cascading around her face and shoulders. The texture appears somewhat unruly, suggesting a naturalness that contrasts with the formality of the pose. The artist has rendered the skin tones with considerable attention to detail, capturing nuances of light and shadow that give the face a sense of vitality.
Subtleties in expression hint at an intelligent and observant nature. Theres a slight upward curve to her lips, which could be interpreted as either amusement or quiet determination. The eyes possess a certain intensity, suggesting a keen intellect and perhaps a willingness to engage with the world on her own terms. The overall impression is one of a woman who possesses both social standing and an inner strength – someone accustomed to navigating complex social landscapes.
The inscription at the top corner, though partially obscured, provides contextual clues about the subjects identity and status (Mrs. Behn, The Poetess). This designation immediately establishes her as a figure of intellectual and artistic merit within a specific cultural context.