Thaïs

Reynolds painted Thaïs around 1781, depicting the legendary Athenian courtesan who accompanied Alexander the Great on his campaigns and reportedly persuaded him to burn the Persian capital of Persepolis. Reynolds may have used the actress Emily Bertie Pott as his model, and the painting's theatrical quality reflects his interest in blending portraiture with history painting. Now in a National Trust property, the painting represents Reynolds's ambitious attempt to elevate portraiture by investing contemporary sitters with the grandeur of classical mythology and ancient history.

The figure is dramatically lit against a dark background in Reynolds's characteristic chiaroscuro manner. Rich crimson drapery frames the composition, and the vigorous brushwork in the torchlight contrasts with the smoother handling of flesh tones.