One of a pair of portraits of two sisters of the Moult family of Nottinghamshire Arthur William Devis (1712-1787)

The portrait presents a young woman in a three-quarter pose, her gaze directed towards the viewer with a measured composure. The oval format, typical of portraits from this period, frames the subject within a gilded frame adorned with floral motifs, suggesting an association with refinement and domesticity.
Here we see a carefully constructed image of status and propriety. The woman is dressed in a rich brown silk gown, its fabric rendered with attention to texture and drape. A delicate lace sleeve peeks from beneath the outer garment, hinting at wealth and access to fine textiles. Around her neck rests a string of pearls, a traditional symbol of purity and affluence. A blue shawl is casually draped over her shoulder, adding a touch of color and softness against the darker tones of the dress.
The artist has paid particular attention to the rendering of her face. The complexion appears pale, fashionable for the time, while subtle shading defines the contours of her features. Her hair is styled in loose curls, partially concealed beneath a decorative ribbon, a hairstyle indicative of the period’s aesthetic preferences. A small emblem, possibly a family crest or heraldic symbol, is affixed to the upper left corner, serving as an identifier of lineage and social standing.
The lighting is soft and diffused, illuminating her face and highlighting the textures of her clothing. The background remains dark and indistinct, drawing attention solely to the subject. This lack of environmental detail reinforces the portrait’s focus on individual identity and status.
Subtly embedded within this depiction are layers of meaning related to female virtue and social expectation. Her direct gaze suggests intelligence and self-assurance, yet it is tempered by a certain reserve, implying modesty and restraint – qualities highly valued in women of her standing. The overall impression conveyed is one of quiet dignity and established position within the social hierarchy. The portrait functions not merely as a likeness but also as a visual declaration of family identity and societal belonging.