'Catherine Countess of Desmond'

Artist: Said to be a copy by Gwen Herbert of Cahernane, of an original painting. The latter may have been hanging in Muckross House in 1865.

Oil on Canvas.
c. 79 x 63.5 cm
Framed: c. 141 x 95 cm

The painted inscription in the artwork reads as follows:
'Catherine Countesse of Desmond as she appeared at ye Court of our Sovraige Lord King James in this present A.D. 1614 and in ye 140th yeare of her Age. Thither she came from Bristol to seek relief House of Desmonde having been ruined by Attainder. She was married in ye Reigne of King Edward IV and in ye Course of her long pilgrimage renewed her teeth twice. Her principal residence is at Inchiquin in Munster whither she undauntedly proposeth (her purpose accomplished) incontinen there to return.'