Mary, Queen of Scots with the scene of her execution (from "La Gallerie des Femmes Fortes," page 350) 1647

Gilles Rousselet's 1647 etching depicts Mary, Queen of Scots, facing her execution. The image is a powerful example of 17th-century portraiture, featuring a detailed portrayal of the queen's regal attire and solemn expression. The dramatic composition emphasizes Mary's steadfastness in the face of death, as a group of figures representing her executioners and onlookers are relegated to the background, their actions obscured by the imposing figure of the queen. Rousselet masterfully captured the tension and tragedy of this historical moment, showcasing the enduring power of the image even centuries later.