Painted around 1815, this portrait by Gilbert Stuart captures Mary Stuart, born Campbell, a figure from early 19th-century American high society. Stuart, a prominent portraitist of his time, depicted her seated in an Empire chair with brown brocade upholstery, her hair elegantly coiffed and adorned with a fashionable ruffled collar over a simple white dress. Interestingly, Stuart executed this and a companion portrait on wood panel, rather than his preferred canvas, due to the British naval blockade during the War of 1812, which disrupted the import of art supplies. This piece would bring a refined, historical presence to a study or a traditionally decorated living room.