Mrs. Stevens
Dressed to the nines in a dashing green riding coat and a powdered wig, this sitter strikes a pose that completely flips 18th-century gender norms on their head. Francis Wheatley captures her with a playful, painted-on mustache and a thoughtful gaze, resting her chin on her hand while clutching a book. This wasn't just a random fashion choice; cross-dressing in riding habits was a cheeky, rebellious trend among fashionable women of the era who wanted to show off their independent spirit. It’s a brilliant snapshot of Georgian high society having a bit of fun with identity!