Lady Heathcote as Hebe

by James Ward, after John Hoppner, portrait of, Lady

$600 · Offered by Donald A. Heald Rare Books · No longer available

In Hoppner's dramatic portrait Lady Heathcote is depicted as Hebe, the goddess of youth. This captivating portrait presents Lady Catherine Sophia Heathcote, the wife of Sir Gilbert Heathcote, in the guise of Hebe, the Greek goddess of youth and spring. In the backdrop, one can spot Ganymede, taking the form of an eagle, who would eventually take over as the cupbearer to the gods. This artistic choice reflects a tradition that was prevalent in portraiture during this era.

Found via Rare Books Intel, a search across rare-book dealers, auction houses and marketplaces worldwide.