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.
ca. 1765
1760-1770
1756
ca. 1750
ca. 1770
ca. 1770
ca. 1765
January 1, 1772