Mary Isabella Manners (née Somerset), Duchess of Rutland

by John Keyse Sherwin, published by Robert Wilkinson, after Sir Joshua Reynolds
line engraving, published 4 June 1791
20 1/8 in. x 14 7/8 in. (510 mm x 379 mm) plate size; 21 5/8 in. x 16 1/4 in. (548 mm x 413 mm) paper size
Acquired, 1868
Reference Collection
NPG D39956

Sitterback to top

Mary Isabella Manners (née Somerset), Duchess of Rutland (1756-1831), Political hostess. Sitter associated with 7 portraits.

Artistsback to top

Sir Joshua Reynolds (1723-1792), Painter and first President of the Royal Academy. Artist or producer associated with 1415 portraits, Sitter associated with 39 portraits.
John Keyse Sherwin (1751-1790), Draughtsman and engraver. Artist or producer associated with 50 portraits, Sitter in 2 portraits.
Robert Wilkinson (active 1767-1827), Publisher. Artist or producer associated with 61 portraits.

Placesback to top

Place made: United Kingdom: England, London (58 Cornhill, London)

Subjects & Themesback to top

Events of 1791back to top

Current affairs

Thomas Paine publishes his inflammatory and widely read Rights of Man in response to Edmund Burke's Reflections on the Revolution in France of the previous year. The work advocates radical revolution and prompts a trial for seditious libel that takes place in his absence.
The Catholic Relief Act is passed, repealing the most severe penal laws.

Art and science

Robert Burns publishes Tam O'Shanter, combining the Scottish vernacular with the formal traditions of classical English poetry and exploring radical ideas of freedom.
The Observer newspaper is founded.
The Ordnance Survey is set up to prepare detailed maps of the country.

International

Mozart composes The Magic Flute.
The Declaration of the Rights of Man establishes liberal freedoms in France
The French Constitution is passed by the National Assembly.
Louis XVI flees Paris with his family but is captured at Varennes.
William Pitt declares Britain will remain neutral in any war against France.

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