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The Great British Art Tour: an 18th-century Kardashian? Meet the original influencer

With public art collections closed, we are bringing the art to you, exploring gems from across the country in partnership with Art UK. Today’s pick: Joshua Reynolds’s Kitty Fisher as Cleopatra in Kenwood House, London

Catherine Maria “Kitty” Fisher was the most celebrated courtesan in England in the 1760s and was one of the first celebrities to be famous simply for being famous. Her career as a high-class prostitute allegedly began after she was seduced then deserted by a young army officer. Using her wit, charm and beauty, she rose to fame through high-profile liaisons with wealthy and powerful men. London society was both scandalised and fascinated by her behaviour, and she cultivated her celebrity status by collaborating with writers and artists to promote her public image.

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from Culture | The Guardian https://ift.tt/3kp5UJT
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