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The Venetian Rosalba Carriera was one of the few artists to enjoy success throughout Europe, and her clients included many members of the ruling houses and aristocratic families. She was born in Venice in 1675 and began studying with the painter Guiseppe Diamantini at the age of 14. She began her career as a miniaturist. She had little competition in this field. However, she achieved great fame and perfection in pastel painting, which she used masterfully for her impressive portraits. The powdery effect of the pastels is in keeping with the beauty ideals of the Rococo period: pale, translucent skin, powdered hair and wigs.

The 'Portrait of a Lady' from the Von der Heydt Museum collection shows an unknown person. It is unclear whether it is a portrait, a mythical or allegorical figure, or a representation of a saint. The sitter is shown in a three-quarters profile. Her torso and head are slightly tilted forward and she looks to the left. Her finely modelled and idealised face is framed by delicate curls crowned with lace, pearls, a diadem and feathers. Her left shoulder and breast are half naked, and her light-coloured dress is covered by a blue cloak loosely held together by a fine sash. Her left hand, at the bottom right of the picture, is in a striking and enigmatic pose: while the little finger is extended, the thumb and forefinger hold a small piece of jewellery or a pearl.

The undated work was given to the museum in 1957 by Eduard von der Heydt. As far as is known at present, it is not known when it came into the possession of von der Heydt or who had previously owned it.