William Bate (c.1759-c.1845)

William Bate (c.1759-c.1845)
Portrait of The Lady Elizabeth Hamilton as 'Beatrice Cenci' by Guido Reni (1575-1642) with long fair hair, wearing a white turban and gown
signed 'W Bate' and signed and dated 'W Bate/1838' verso
enamel on copper, oval
8 x 6cm, gold bezel, tested as approximately 9ct gold

Beatrice Cenci, a Roman noblewoman, plotted in 1598 with three family members to murder her abusive father, Count Francesco Cenci. He had been sent to prison for his abuse to her and her family, but released early because of his noble status. Feeling there was no other option, the family conspired to kill him. When the plot was discovered after his disappearance, the family were arrested. The much publicised trial in 1599 Rome gave rise to an enduring legend about her and she has become a symbol of defiance against the arrogance of the ruling class. She, along with her co-conspirators, was beheaded in 1599.