Mary, Queen of Scots 1830 - 1870

This is Henry Adlard’s print of Mary, Queen of Scots, made in the 19th century. Mary Stuart lived a dramatic life in the 16th century, marked by political intrigue and personal tragedy. As a woman in a position of power, her life was fraught with challenges, navigating the patriarchal structures of the time. Adlard’s print, created centuries after Mary’s death, reflects a continued fascination with her story and image. It is a romanticized vision of a female monarch, caught in a web of religious and political conflict. How do we reconcile our contemporary notions of female leadership with historical portrayals of women in power? This image invites us to reflect on the enduring power of representation and the complex interplay of gender, power, and history. The portrait serves as a poignant reminder of the human stories that underlie historical narratives.