Jane Burden, aged 18 1858

Dante Gabriel Rossetti drew this pencil sketch of Jane Burden when she was 18 years old. Rossetti was part of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, an artistic movement that challenged the conventions of Victorian art. Jane Burden's story is captivating; discovered by Rossetti and Edward Burne-Jones, she rose from a working-class background to become a celebrated model and, later, a designer and embroiderer. In this sketch, Burden's introspective gaze and poised demeanor hint at the complexities of her identity. As a woman who defied social expectations, she became an emblem of unconventional beauty and artistic inspiration. Rossetti captured something of her quiet strength and enigmatic allure. The portrait invites us to consider the dynamics of representation and the power of the gaze, particularly in the context of Victorian society. It’s a reflection on how individuals can transcend their circumstances and leave an indelible mark on history.