Mrs Cay 

Editor: Here we have Henry Raeburn's "Mrs. Cay," currently housed at the Tate. The soft lighting gives the portrait a gentle, almost ethereal quality. As a historian, what do you see reflected in this piece? Curator: Raeburn was a master of capturing the social fabric of his time. This portrait reflects the aspirational values of the Scottish Enlightenment. Notice how Mrs. Cay is presented: dignified, yet approachable. Editor: Approachable, yes, but also slightly reserved, don’t you think? Curator: Perhaps. But consider the context. Portraiture served a public function, reinforcing social hierarchies and ideals. How do you see that playing out here? Editor: I see your point. Thank you for highlighting the artwork's role within society. Curator: Indeed. It reveals so much about the values and expectations of that era.