This miniature was acquired as a portrait of Elizabeth Alexievna, empress of Russia (1779-1826). The sitter does not look like any accepted portraits of the empress, however, and it would be very unusual for a member of the Russian royal family to be depicted without wearing the insignia of any Orders. It has been suggested that this lady may be an actress in an elaborate costume.

The identity of the artist is unknown, but the style suggests a German or Russian artist.