The beauty of the lady and the richness and sheen of the satin and silk fabrics she wears indicate she is wealthy and important.
The artist, Sargent, was a friend of Mrs. Swinton’s, and they often met at dinner parties, where he played the piano after dinner while she sang. Sargent was much liked as a portrait painter and we come to know many of the famous people from the turn of the century through his paintings.