Lady Elizabeth Grey, Countess of Kent c. 1619

Editor: Here we have a portrait of Lady Elizabeth Grey, Countess of Kent, by Paul van Somer. The black dress is so striking against her pale skin! How do you interpret her poised expression and opulent attire? Curator: Well, the stark contrast definitely grabs you, doesn't it? I see a woman keenly aware of her status, but perhaps also a hint of melancholy in her eyes. It makes me wonder, what did she really think of all this finery? Editor: That’s interesting. I hadn't considered the melancholy. Curator: These portraits are fascinating because they tell us so much about societal expectations and individual stories woven together; it is a play between the public persona and private emotion, don't you think? Editor: Absolutely. I'll certainly look at portraits differently now.