Mary, Queen of Scots 1824

This is George Smeeton's engraving of Mary, Queen of Scots. The print presents a framed portrait of Mary who, as a woman in power in the 16th century, navigated a world of political and religious turmoil. Her story is one of royal lineage, religious conflict, and ultimately, tragic execution. Mary’s Catholic faith placed her at odds with the Protestant establishment in Scotland and England, leading to her imprisonment and eventual execution at the hands of her cousin, Queen Elizabeth I. Smeeton's print reflects the fascination with Mary's dramatic life, encapsulating her image for posterity. The fur trim and jewelry suggests her royal status. The image operates within a tradition of representing female monarchs, but it also carries the weight of Mary's personal struggles and the complex politics that defined her reign. It is a reminder of the intersectional challenges faced by women in positions of power.