"The design simulates a pyramidal monument in bas relief against a stone wall, supported on short Corinthian pilasters between which is an inscription. On the face of the pyramid Lady Cecilia Johnston, is seated in profile to the right on a round close-stool. She is thin and witch-like, her chin is support by her left hand, the elbow resting on her knee. In her right hand is a torn paper inscribed 'Tranquility'. Behind the stool stands a little cupid holding his nose; in his left hand is a torch, reversed. On the ground (right) are bones and two skulls which gaze at Lady Cecilia. Beneath is the inscription: "By Patience, minds an equal temper know, Nor swell too high, nor sink too low; Patience the fiercest grief can charm, And fate's severest rage disarm: Patience can soften pain to ease, And make despair and madness please, This the divine Cecilia found, And to her Husbands ears, confind the sound." Vide St Cecilias Day."--British Museum online catalogue and The allusions are to St. Cecilia (died 177) and to Cecilla's husband General James Johnston. Also allusion to Shakespeare's Othello, iv.2.61-3 and Shakespeare's Twelfth Night, ii.4.111
Description:
Title etched below image., Printmaker from British Museum catalogue., Sheet trimmed within plate mark., and Mounted to 34 x 24 cm.
Publisher:
Pubd. Septr. 19th, 1791, by H. Humphrey, N. 18 Old Bond Street
Subject (Name):
Johnston, Henrietta Cecilia, Lady, 1727-1817 and Johnston, James Lesslie, 1697 or 1698-1789.
Subject (Topic):
Defecation, Monuments & memorials, Putti, and Skull & crossbones
