Mary of Modena, 1658 - 1718. Consort of James VII and II
1687
This glamourous portrait of Mary of Modena was painted following her husband, James VII and II?s, accession to the throne in 1685. A devout catholic, Mary had intended to enter a convent. However, in 1673, following the Pope?s encouragement that she should marry, she became James?s second wife. Wissing has included a cockatoo as a reference to the significance of religion in Mary?s life. Her new role as Queen Consort is emphasised by the addition of a crown, which sits on a ledge to her right. Mary gave birth to James Francis Edward Stuart in 1688, the Jacobite claimant to the throne following James VII and II?s deposition.
