Elizabeth, Duchess of Manchester and Her Son c. 1770

James Watson made this mezzotint titled *Elizabeth, Duchess of Manchester and Her Son* in the latter half of the 18th century. At this time, portraiture was a way for the elite to convey not just likeness, but also status, power, and cultural ideals. Here, the Duchess is presented in the guise of Diana, the Roman goddess of the hunt, a common trope at the time. But this image does more than just flatter; it engages with contemporary notions of motherhood and femininity. The presence of her son complicates the classical allegory, adding a layer of sentimentality. Traditionally, women in society, especially those of high status, were often portrayed as symbols of virtue and motherhood. The Duchess's attire and pose reflect these expectations, yet there's also a hint of individuality in her gaze and posture. Through its allegorical language and attention to detail, the artwork offers a glimpse into the complex negotiations of identity, representation, and social expectations in 18th-century Britain. It invites us to reflect on the ways women navigated their roles within a patriarchal society, using portraiture as a means to both conform and assert their presence.