A large, full-body portrait drawing — the most complete clothed figure in the pencil portrait series. A woman seen in three-quarter view occupies the picture field from crown to waist, her expression a slight, knowing smile directed slightly off to the right. The inscription at upper right — "BHA" — may be her initials or a title abbreviation.
The most distinctive detail is the brooch at the neckline: a sunburst or star-shaped form, drawn with the specific attention of a jeweler who knew exactly what this piece of jewelry looked like. Multiple radiating spikes around a central circle, the form drawn with the precision of someone who either made this piece or examined it very closely. Given Sidney's documented jewelry practice, the possibility that this brooch is one of his own pieces worn by his subject adds biographical resonance.
The hair is swept to one side in a generous wave, the overall mass described with multiple parallel strokes. The face is the most smiling in the portrait series — not a broad grin like the Laughing Man (877) but a private, directed smile, the expression of someone who finds the situation mildly amusing.
The clothing — a sleeveless top with a round neckline — is described with the light tonal buildup that gives it fabric quality without overworking it. The shoulders and arms below are present but subordinate.
The "Sid" signature at lower right confirms this as a valued finished work.