Portret van Teresia Constantia Phillips 1719 - 1756

This is John Faber's portrait of Teresia Constantia Phillips, created in the 18th century. It provides a glimpse into the life of a woman who challenged the norms of her time through her writings and actions. Phillips, an English author and courtesan, was known for her sharp wit and independent spirit, which she expressed through her scandalous autobiography titled "An Apology for the Conduct of Mrs. Teresia Constantia Phillips." In this book, Phillips unveiled the hypocrisies of high society and the double standards faced by women. She turned her personal experiences into a form of social critique, challenging the norms of female representation. Through Faber's mezzotint, we can see the elegance with which Phillips presented herself to the world, yet her gaze hints at the complexities beneath the surface. The portrait and Phillips' story provide a commentary on the position of women and the ways in which they navigated the constraints placed upon them.