Joshua Reynolds turned this portrait of Emily Bertie Pott into a grand history painting by combining portraiture, classical literature and social comment. Thaïs famously encouraged Alexander the Great to burn the Palace of Persepolis. In the 18th century, she was associated with women like Emily, an infamous mistress of Charles Greville.
1781
Oil on canvas
2293.0 x 1448.0mm
2556
Where you'll find this
Waddesdon Manor
Permanent collection
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Thaïs
Sir Joshua Reynolds at Waddesdon
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2:02
West Hall and Morning Room
Discover Waddesdon Manor - Audio Tour
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