Search results

Start typing

This exhibition is in the past. View our current exhibitions.
AFTER PETER CROSS (C. 1645-1724); PUBLISHED BY RICHARD TOMPSON (D. 1693)

Nell Gwyn as Venus

c.1678-9

RCIN 655579

Nell Gwyn is shown here in the guise of Venus, goddess of love, adapted from a painting by Correggio which had been in the collection of Charles I. While not identified by name, clues to Nell's identity are provided in the verse, such as being described as the ‘soveraigns Joy’. Only a handful of impressions of this mezzotint have survived, including one in Samuel Pepys's collection. Pepys admired Nell as a comic actress and referred to her as ‘a mighty pretty creature’.

Cat. 168

    The income from your ticket contributes directly to The Royal Collection Trust, a registered charity. The aims of The Royal Collection Trust are the care and conservation of the Royal Collection, and the promotion of access and enjoyment through exhibitions, publications, loans and educational activities.