Mary, Queen of Scots 1787

This engraving of Mary, Queen of Scots, was created by N. Thomas around 1787. The image revives the memory of a monarch executed in 1587, two centuries prior to this print. The print participates in the 18th-century fascination with historical figures and the aesthetic of the past. Mary’s story is steeped in gendered political drama; a woman ruling in a world of men, whose life was marked by conflict, imprisonment, and ultimately, execution. Here, she is captured in a moment of serene, almost melancholic composure. Her elaborate lace collar and headdress speak to her royal status. The artist evokes both the personal tragedy and the political machinations that defined Mary’s life. By immortalizing her in print, Thomas invites us to reflect on the narratives we construct around powerful women. Mary’s story resonates as a reminder of the complex interplay between gender, power, and history.