Mary Sidney, Countess of Pembroke

Simon de Passe

National Gallery of Art

The image features a historical portrait of a woman from the waist up. She is seated, facing forward with her body slightly angled to the left. Her facial expression is calm and composed, with distinct features including wide eyes and a serene mouth. Her hair is styled in a voluminous, curly fashion typical of the era, framing her face elegantly. She is adorned in richly detailed clothing, featuring intricate patterns and luxurious lace ruffles around the neck and sleeves. The woman is wearing a pearl necklace and matching pearl drop earrings, holding a small open book in her hand that shows the text "David Psalma". The background of the image is an ornate oval frame with scrollwork and decorative elements. Text in Latin and English provides context about the individual depicted, identified as Lady Mary Sidney.