Sarah Siddons (possibly as Mrs Haller) in 'The Stranger'

Lawrence painted Sarah Siddons, possibly in the role of Mrs. Haller from The Stranger, around 1797. This version, now in the University of Bristol Theatre Collection, shows Siddons in a theatrical context that connects portraiture to the performing arts. Lawrence's multiple portraits of Siddons trace their long personal and professional relationship — he first encountered her as a teenager in Bath and continued to paint her throughout his career. The theatrical collection context makes this an important document of Georgian stage history.

The theatrical subject allows Lawrence to employ a more dramatic palette and lighting than his standard portrait format. Siddons's famous ability to project powerful emotion through stillness is captured in the carefully painted expression, while the costume details suggest the specific role without becoming a mere theatrical illustration.