Kitty Fisher as Cleopatra Joshua Reynolds (1723-1792)

The composition presents a woman in a pose suggestive of melancholy and contemplation. She is positioned three-quarter length, seated on what appears to be an ornate chair with a dark green background that recedes into shadow, isolating the figure and intensifying her presence. Her gaze is directed off to the left, beyond the viewer’s perspective, creating a sense of inward focus and detachment.
The womans attire contributes significantly to the overall impression. She wears a flowing white gown, partially obscured by a draped blue robe lined with white fur or fabric. The sleeves are adorned with delicate pearl embellishments, adding an element of luxury and refinement. A small golden crown rests atop her elaborately styled auburn hair, which is loosely arranged in curls around her face.
In her right hand, she holds a gilded cup, seemingly poised to drink from it. This gesture introduces a layer of ambiguity; the liquid within the cup could symbolize poison, referencing Cleopatra’s legendary death, or perhaps represent something more metaphorical – sorrow, regret, or even a fleeting moment of indulgence. The delicate touch with which she extends her hand towards the cup suggests a hesitant acceptance rather than an eager consumption.
The artists use of light and shadow is particularly noteworthy. A soft, diffused light illuminates the woman’s face and upper body, highlighting her pale complexion and emphasizing the vulnerability in her expression. The darker background serves to accentuate this luminosity, drawing attention to her features and intensifying the emotional weight of the scene.
The overall effect is one of restrained drama and psychological complexity. While the opulent clothing and crown suggest a position of privilege, the woman’s downcast gaze and melancholic demeanor hint at an underlying sadness or burden. The painting evokes themes of beauty, mortality, and perhaps even the burdens associated with power or notoriety. Its a portrait that invites speculation about the subject’s inner life and the circumstances surrounding her pose.