Manuel Salvador Carmona was the most important academic engraver in 18th-century Spain. In addition to impressions of his prints, the Museo del Prado also has a large group of his drawings, including preparatory studies for prints, life studies and portraits of his family and friends. The latter include this exceptional portrait of his wife, the painter Anna Maria Mengs (1751-1792). Depictions of women drawing are uncommon in Spain and this example is considered unique within the context of 18th-century Spanish art.