Technique

The panel was made from a single section of wood about 1 cm thick, and the grain runs vertically. The pale grey ground has been used as a mid-tone. The brush marks of the priming go across the board horizontally, contradicting the vertical emphasis of the design and wood-grain. 1

The outlines of Miss Birnie Philip's right arm, and of both her puffed sleeves, have been altered. The background was painted with comparatively bold, sketchy strokes, and is incomplete. By contrast the woman's head was painted with tiny, precise brushstrokes.

Conservation History

The panel has a slight diagonal warp but has not split and the painting is generally sound, although the varnish is slightly yellowed. 2

Frame

47.3 x 37.7 x 3.2 cm.