ALISTAIR THEIRIN PRAYER SOCIETY

More people need to see this

You know, one good thing about Alistair Week is how it brings people together.

Alistair Week 2025 is coming September 7th - 13th!

Save the date and join us for a week full of loving and celebrating Alistair. Whether you're an artist, writer, gif maker, virtual photographer, or poet, all forms of creation are welcome.

Prompts will be announced and further information will be shared in the coming weeks. Follow us and stay tuned for more!

Self-Portrait, Sir Joshua Reynolds, ca. 1745-49

Prince George of Wales, a Protestant royal and heir to the English throne (and later King George IV), found himself enchanted with Maria Anne Fitzherbert, a twice-widowed devout Catholic, six years his senior. George sent to his beloved a tiny treasure, called an "eye jewel". Its origins are rooted in miniature painting and they were a Georgian fashion rage.

Below: Joshua Reynolds • Portrait of King George IV

Sir Joshua Reynolds (British/English) • Maria Anne Fitzherbert • 1788 • National Portrait Gallery

They were once tokens of romantic love. They were also mourning pieces; the eye of the deceased represented within a tiny, ornate frame. In this case, the pearls around the frame represent tears and the clouds, the passage to heaven.

Unknown maker • Here is an eye jewel fashioned as a ring.

Unknown maker • Miniature (brooch) • early 19th century • © Victoria and Albert Museum, London.

Self Portrait