Elizabeth Farren by Andrew Plimer

Elizabeth Farren was one of the most celebrated actresses and beauties of the later 18th century. She often portrayed upper-class characters and lived that role by marrying the 12th Earl of Derby in 1797. This portrait was completed before her marriage. Her long hair, piled up in great curls, and her white gown are the idea of feminine beauty at that time. The gold locket set with pearls that houses the portrait is of a later date.