Mrs. John Puget (Catherine Hawkins)

Art Historical Context

Nestled in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's European Paintings collection, *Mrs. John Puget ( Hawkins)* is a delicate portrait by Richard Gainsborough, an 18th-century English artist and nephew of the celebrated Thomas Gainsborough. Rendered in oil on copper—a rare and technically demanding medium favored for its smooth surface that allowed for exquisite detail and luminous finishes—this intimate work measures just 6 x 4¾ inches, evoking the tradition of miniature portraits prized by the British aristocracy. Dupont's style echoes his uncle elegant Rococo influences, with soft brushwork and a focus on capturing the sitter's poise and refinement. Catherine Hawkins, wife of John Puget, represents the refined women of Georgian society, her likeness preserved as a personal token of status and affection. The copper support, uncommon for portraits of this era, highlights the artist's skill in achieving jewel-like precision, making it a gem for collectors. Bequeathed to the Met in 1950 by Mary Stillman Harkness, this painting offers a window into 18th-century portraiture's blend of technical innovation and social portraiture, inviting visitors to appreciate its subtle grandeur up close.