Lady Harrington (or Jane Fleming as she was known when this portrait was painted) is depicted by Reynolds as a Classical goddess.

She is shown as Aurora, Roman goddess of the dawn, holding a symbolic wreath of flowers and a sash dotted with gold stars. In Roman mythology, it is Aurora’s job to announce the arrival of the sun and dispense morning dew. The goddess is also known for her desire for mortal men.

Jane wears a low-cut white satin gown that resembles Classical draperies, emulating ancient marble sculpture. The colour white is often used in historical portraiture to symbolise purity and maidenhood.

Jane stands stiffly, with her arms positioned to draw attention to her ‘divine’ attributes. She is painted in profile whilst gazing into the distance, showcasing
her fashionable hairstyle and good looks. Her face is painted with white-lead makeup and rouge.

Reynolds depicts Jane in front of an early morning sky and located within an idyllic wooded grove, with a view across the horizon. Flowers come into bloom at her feet.