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CHESHIRE ANTIQUES CONSULTANT LTD

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Item Details

Lady Jane Stanhope as Aurora: An Allegorical Watercolour in the Grand Manner Style

Watercolour on Paper, c.1785

The Subject:

This refined and radiant watercolour captures Lady Jane Stanhope, Countess of Harrington (1755–1824) portrayed as Aurora, the Roman goddess of the dawn. More than a likeness, this is an allegorical celebration of femininity, light, and virtue — rendered through the delicate transparency of watercolour, a medium perfectly suited to mythological reverie.

Composition & Technique:

Set in a romantic grove at daybreak, Lady Jane stands in elegant contrapposto upon a bed of early blossoms, illuminated by the warm glow of dawn. Behind her, the sky dissolves into hues of soft rose, golden amber, and misty blue — a celestial atmosphere befitting her divine guise.

She is adorned in a classical white satin gown, its folds painted with fluid grace. A gauzy sash dotted with gold stars floats behind her, its movement captured with sweeping, expressive brushstrokes. The artist skillfully contrasts precision in her face and hands with atmospheric washes throughout the landscape, creating a delicate balance between realism and dreamlike allegory.

Motifs such as the starry sash, floral wreaths, and rising light symbolize purity, transformation, and celestial femininity — all instantly legible to 18th-century viewers attuned to classical iconography.

Style & Influence:

This work is a quintessential example of the Grand Manner tradition — a style of portraiture elevated by Sir Joshua Reynolds to merge historical grandeur with personal likeness. The artist here draws from Reynolds’ visual language: classical reference, idealized beauty, and allegorical purpose. Though not painted by Reynolds himself, the influence of his studio is unmistakable.

Through this lens, Lady Jane is not merely a countess — she is an icon of renewal, grace, and aristocratic virtue.

About the Sitter:

Born Jane Fleming, daughter and heiress of Sir John Fleming, 1st Baronet, she became Countess of Harrington through her marriage to Charles Stanhope in 1779. Prominent at the Georgian court, she served as Lady of the Bedchamber to Queen Charlotte and was celebrated for her beauty, intellect, and charm. Artists of the day often sought to capture her refined presence — and in this portrait, she is immortalized as divine light itself.

The Artist’s Hand:

Although unsigned, the portrait was clearly painted by a highly skilled follower of Reynolds — an artist deeply attuned to his academic training and allegorical vision. This piece exemplifies the calibre of work emerging from the broader Reynolds circle in the 1780s: accomplished, idealized, and resonant with classical meaning.

Frame & Presentation:

Now beautifully housed in a reverse-profile moulded gold leaf frame, thoughtfully selected to reflect the portrait’s 18th-century character. It has been expertly conserved and reglazed with museum-grade AR70 glass, offering:

Minimal reflection
UV protection
Enhanced visibility of fine detail and tonal nuance
A perfect pairing of preservation and presentation.

Framed Dimensions:

Height: 55 cm
Width: 47 cm
Depth: 1.5 cm
📜 Provenance:

Private Scottish Collection
Acquired via a reputable Scottish auction
Curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD
Exhibited at a noted Middle Shire Museum
❤️ Why This Work Matters:

This isn’t just a portrait — it’s a visual narrative, a historic artefact, and a poetic embodiment of noble femininity. Collectors and admirers alike will appreciate:

A rare insight into Georgian portraiture and mythology
The elegance of Grand Manner allegory brought to life in watercolour
A historic subject of aristocratic and cultural importance
A museum-worthy statement piece of refinement and symbolism
Exceptional conservation and display clarity through museum-grade glazing

Whether you're a collector of period art, a connoisseur of classical allegory, or simply seeking a showpiece of subtle grandeur — this painting resonates with dignity, legacy, and light.Condition:

Good condition overall. Watercolour remains vibrant and stable. Some minor foxing present in areas, typical of its age and medium. Professionally conserved and protected under high-quality AR70 glazing for longevity.

Shipping & Delivery:

We ship worldwide, with full insurance and professional packaging to ensure safe arrival.

 

• Period: 1785
• • Price: £5,000.00
  • €5,805 Euro
  • $6,800 US Dollar
• Location: London
• • Dimensions: H: 55cm (21.65in)
  • W: 47cm (18.50in)
  • D: 1.5cm (0.59in)