Catherine Vernon, Mrs George Vernon of Sudbury 

John Riley painted Catherine Vernon, Mrs. George Vernon of Sudbury, during a time when portraiture served as a powerful tool for social positioning in late 17th century England. Catherine’s identity as the third wife of George Vernon situates her within a patriarchal structure. However, the painting offers an alternative narrative. Note her gaze and posture, which convey a sense of self-possession. The artist captures her in luxurious fabrics, subtly pushing against the constraints of her role. Consider the emotional complexity of being a woman in this era, where personal identity was often overshadowed by marital status and societal expectations. Riley’s work invites us to consider the negotiation of identity and representation within the confines of 17th century social norms. Catherine Vernon’s portrait not only reflects her personal history but also provides insight into the broader societal dynamics of gender, class, and representation.