Miss Kitty Fischer

Dateca. 1759

Publisher John Bowles 1701 - 1779

Engraver Richard Houston (1721-1775)

After work by Sir Joshua Reynolds (1723-1792)

OriginEngland, London

MediumBlack and white mezzotint

DimensionsOverall: 16 5/8 × 11 1/2in. (42.2 × 29.2cm)
Other (Plate): 14 × 10in. (35.6 × 25.4cm)

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1979-72

DescriptionThe lower margin reads: "Miss Kitty Fischer./ J. Reynolds pinx.t/ Rich.d Houston Fecit./ Printed for Jn.o Bowles_at N.o 13_in Cornhill."Label TextCatherine Maria ('Kitty') Fischer also known as Kitty Fisher (circa 1741-1767) had the reputation of being a English courtesan and is viewed as one of the precursors to modern day celebrity - being famous not for being an actress or musician or member of the nobility, but simply for being famous. She captivated her contemporaries with her beauty, charm, reputation, and fashion which she very intentionally promoted through print culture. Fisher was painted by several of the most famous artists of the day, notably Sir Joshua Reynolds who painted the portrait upon which this mezzotint is based. Originally published in 1759, just as her star was rising, prints after Reynolds' portrait contributed to her fame and led to her status as a style icon. Fisher is portrayed in a half-length pose, leaning forward upon a table with an open, date (1759 June 2) letter before her.ProvenanceBefore 1979, the Old Print Shop (New York, NY); 1979-present, purchased by the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation (Williamsburg, VA).