Mary, Queen of Scots 1700 - 1750

George Vertue created this engraving of Mary, Queen of Scots in England during the 18th century. It revives the imagery of a controversial figure from the past to serve a specific cultural function. The print presents Mary within an oval frame, adorned with royal symbols like crowns and fleur-de-lis, which evoke the authority she once held. The axe at the bottom alludes to her execution, and turns the image into a memento mori. In 18th-century Britain, the memory of Mary was potent. To some, she was a symbol of Catholic resistance, and to others, a symbol of the dangers of political intrigue. Prints like this one were made for a growing market of collectors interested in history and genealogy. Studying engravings like this one reminds us that historical images are never neutral. They are always shaped by the social and political context in which they are made and collected. Researching the print market of 18th century London would reveal the varied motivations that fueled the creation and consumption of such images.