Woman Playing a Harp

ca. 1778

Swiss, 1741-1807

Kauffman was one of the most sophisticated and well-traveled women of her day-a renowned painter, talented musician, and fluent in several languages. The daughter of a Swiss painter, she received early training in Italy before moving to London in 1766. In 1768 she became a founding member of London's Royal Academy, a sign of her already impressive reputation. She spent the last twenty-five years of her life in Italy.

This may be the painting that Kauffman exhibited in 1778 at the Royal Academy under the title Portrait of a Lady Playing on the Harp. Moreover, it may be a self-portrait of the artist, as it bears a resemblance to other likenesses of her.

Oil on canvas

34 7/8 x 27 1/4 in. (88.58 x 69.22 cm)

Gift of Mrs. Lew V. Day in memory of her husband

66.63

Not currently on view

Resources

Exhibition HistoryBellevue, Washington, Bellevue Art Museum, 17th, 18th, 19th Century Western Art, Oct. 30 - Nov. 24, 1975

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