Mary Beale (1633-1699) was one of the earliest professional women artists in Britain. Her successful career was documented by her husband, Charles, whose almanacks provide a unique record of Mary-s patrons, painting technique and family affairs. Her portraits of politicians, clergy, aristocracy and intellectuals reflect the vibrant literary, scientific and political scene of the seventeenth century. She has been seen as a feminist icon not only as a professional artist but also as a poet and the author of a Discourse on Friendship (1667) which argued for the equality of husband and wife in marriage - a radical concept at that time. This new edition includes newly documented paintings by Mary Beale that have come to light since the first edition was published in 2019.
