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In this portrait by Sir Joshua Reynolds, noted beauty Sophia Catherine Musters (1758–1819) is portrayed as Hebe, the Goddess of Youth and cupbearer of Mount Olympus. According to classical mythology, Hebe was able to restore youth to both Gods and mortals by feeding them ambrosia (food of the gods). Painted when she was around 24, it was made to replace an earlier portrait by Reynolds that was intended for her husband, John Musters, but which was eventually given to the Prince of Wales (later George IV), who was rumoured to be Mrs Muster’s lover. Reynolds’ first portrait is a fairly conventionally depiction of a young bride, dressed in contemporary fashions and standing in a landscape, with a small dog at her feet. This portrait is a more daring example of Reynolds’ ‘Grand Manner’ style.
English Heritage, Kenwood
London
Title
Mrs Musters as Hebe
Date
1782
Medium
oil on canvas
Measurements
H 238.8 x W 144.8 cm
Accession number
88028806
Acquisition method
Iveagh Bequest, 1929
Work type
Painting
English Heritage, Kenwood
Hampstead Lane, London, Greater London NW3 7JR England
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