An Elder Sister of Mrs Bowes

An Elder Sister of Mrs Bowes from around 1827 by Paul Delaroche is a portrait connected to the English Bowes family, reflecting the artist's international patronage. Delaroche's reputation extended across the Channel, attracting English as well as French sitters. Delaroche's method involved extensive research into historical costume and settings, and his large oil canvases were famous for their almost photographic clarity combined with powerful emotional staging.

The female portrait demonstrates Delaroche's refined technique applied to English portraiture, with careful attention to the sitter's features and costume.