Lady Hamilton (?as a Figure in ‘Fortune Telling’)

Lady Hamilton as a Figure in Fortune Telling from 1783 is another of the numerous allegorical and mythological portraits Romney created of Emma Hart. These imaginative compositions allowed Romney to explore his interest in expression and dramatic gesture beyond the constraints of conventional portraiture. Characteristic of the artist's mature approach, the work displays graceful, luminous portraiture with fluid drapery, classical idealization informed by his Italian journey (1773–75), expressive but controlled characterization.

The dramatic gesture and flowing drapery are painted with Romney's rapid, fluid technique, the theatrical composition animated by the model's celebrated expressiveness.