Portret van Selina Hastings, hertogin van Huntingdon 1731 - 1775

Richard Houston created this portrait of Selina Hastings, the Countess of Huntingdon, using mezzotint, a printmaking technique that allows for rich tonal depth. The Countess lived during a time of rigid social hierarchies, yet she challenged these norms through her religious conviction and philanthropic efforts. She became a prominent figure in the Calvinist Methodist movement in England, using her wealth and social standing to support its growth. In this portrait, the Countess is captured with a serene expression, her gaze directed slightly away, perhaps indicative of her introspective nature. The soft rendering of her features and the delicate ornamentation of her hair reflect the conventions of aristocratic portraiture, yet her engagement with religious reform sets her apart. Ultimately, this portrait serves not only as a depiction of an individual, but also reflects the complex intersection of faith, gender, and class during a transformative period in British history.