In Sarah Shippen Lea (Mrs. Thomas Lea), Gilbert Stuart captures the likeness of a woman dressed in elegant attire. The color palette features soft earth tones, with a focus on the warm hues of her dress and the cool tones of the background.

Her expression is calm and composed, reflecting a sense of dignity. The setting is simple, allowing the viewer to focus on her figure and facial features. The painting is executed in oil on canvas, a common medium for portraits of this era. Stuart's technique is characterized by smooth brushwork and a keen attention to detail, particularly in the rendering of fabric and skin tones.

The dimensions of the artwork are approximately 76.2 x 61 cm, making it a standard size for portraiture. The composition is balanced, with the subject positioned centrally against a muted background. Gilbert Stuart was a prominent American portrait painter known for his ability to capture the essence of his subjects. This particular work, painted in the late 18th century, showcases his skill in creating lifelike representations.

An interesting fact about this painting is that it is one of several portraits Stuart created of notable figures of the time, contributing to his reputation as a leading portraitist in early American art.