Portret van Elizabeth Gunning, hertogin van Hamilton 1745 - 1775

Richard Houston produced this mezzotint portrait of Elizabeth Gunning, Duchess of Hamilton, sometime in the mid-18th century. This print offers an intimate look at a celebrated figure, but it also speaks volumes about the society that elevated her to such status. Made in England, the portrait reflects the period's obsession with beauty, celebrity, and aristocratic status. Elizabeth Gunning, an Irish woman, became a sensation in London society for her remarkable beauty, leading to her marriage into nobility. This image, therefore, is as much a document of social mobility and celebrity culture as it is a depiction of a person. The mezzotint technique allowed for subtle gradations of tone, capturing the delicate details of Gunning's features and attire. This portrait, like many others of its time, served to solidify the Duchess's position within the social hierarchy, reinforcing notions of beauty, class, and power. To truly understand this image, one must delve into the social and institutional contexts that shaped its production and reception. Researching the history of celebrity culture, the role of women in 18th-century society, and the mechanics of the print market will reveal the complex meanings embedded within this seemingly simple portrait.