Portrait of Mary of Modena c. 1673

Nicholas Dixon painted this miniature portrait of Mary of Modena around the late 17th century. The ermine-lined cloak, an emblem of royalty, and the statue in the background are symbols of power and refinement. The statue, a classical motif, represents a link to ancient ideals of virtue and leadership. This harkens back to the Roman tradition of associating rulers with divine figures, a practice echoed in Renaissance portraiture, where emperors were likened to gods. We see this association across time, like echoes in a hall of mirrors. Consider the gesture of Mary’s hand. It's delicate, almost hesitant, yet it speaks of control. This gesture reminds us of countless portraits, from medieval Madonnas to society ladies. There is something universal in this subtle assertion of self, echoing through the ages. This image resonates with our collective memory of power. It reminds us that symbols shift, reappear, and transform with the tide of history.