Mary, Queen of Scots

William Herbert, 1st Earl of Pembroke, 1820

MEDIUMEngraving
DIMENSIONSPlate: 8 7/16 × 5 11/16 in. (21.5 × 14.5 cm) Sheet: 14 in. × 10 15/16 in. (35.5 × 27.8 cm)
LOCATIONThe Metropolitan Museum of Art
COLLECTIONDrawings and Prints
CREDIT LINEGift of Susan Dwight Bliss, 1958

Stop and observe this 1820 engraving of Mary, Queen of Scots. It captures a moment of quiet reflection, inviting you to ponder the dramatic life of this iconic historical figure through the artist's sensitive rendering of her expression and attire.

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ABOUT THIS WORK

This engraving presents Mary, Queen of Scots, in a pensive moment, her gaze directed slightly away from the viewer. The artist, William Herbert, 1st Earl of Pembroke, renders her with a delicate precision, evident in the intricate lace collar and cuffs that frame her face and hands. Her dark gown, simple yet elegant, contrasts with the lighter tones of her skin and the soft ruff around her neck, drawing attention to her regal bearing. The portrait, created in 1820, reflects a Romantic-era fascination with historical figures and their tragic narratives. Pembroke's choice to depict Mary in this contemplative pose invites empathy, allowing us a glimpse into the inner world of a queen whose life was marked by political turmoil and personal sorrow, ultimately leading to her execution.

LOOK CLOSER

What to Notice

1

The delicate lace of Mary's collar and cuffs.

2

Her somber expression and slightly averted gaze.

3

The subtle texture of her dark, flowing gown.

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Audio Deep Dive

Stop and observe this 1820 engraving of Mary, Queen of Scots. It captures a moment of quiet reflection, inviting you to ponder the dramatic life of this iconic…

Hear the full story in the app
THE ARTIST
William Herbert, 1st Earl of Pembroke

This entry refers to William Herbert, 1st Earl of Pembroke, a historical figure, not an artist with a known body of artwork.

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