It is well-recorded that in addition to preparatory sketches for large-scale oil portraits, Sir Thomas Lawrence drew portrait studies of friends and family. This fine drawing of Mary Wynell-Mynow is one such example. Languidly resting, Mary is dressed in the height of Regency fashion in an elegant empire-line dress, a wrap thrown over her shoulders and a delicate flower sprig on her corsage. Her floaty headdress runs beneath her chin and is secured in her hair with a ribbon bow. Mary’s only jewellery is a narrow bracelet featuring a symbolic red heart.Born in 1777, Mary was the eldest daughter of Mayow Wynell-Mayow and his wife Mary (née Paulin). Mayow was a solicitor in the Excise Office, a position which enabled him to make private land deals to increase his wealth. Mary and her four sisters were celebrated in their day for their intelligence, integrity and refinement. They held regular soirées hosting artists, writers, politicians and poets. Lawrence was almost certainly amongst...