The design simulates a pyramidal monument in bas relief against a stone wall, supported on short corinthian pilasters between which is an inscription. On the face of the pyramid lady cecilia johnston (see bmsat 5748), is seated in profile to the right on a round close-stool. She is thin and witch-like, her chin is support by her left hand, the elbow resting on her knee. In her right hand is a torn paper inscribed 'tranquility'. Behind the stool stands a little cupid holding his nose; in his left hand is a torch, reversed. On the ground (right) are bones and two skulls which gaze at lady cecilia. Beneath is the inscription:
'"by patience, minds an equal temper know,
"nor swell too high, nor sink too low;
"patience the fiercest grief can charm,
"and fate's severest rage disarm:
"patience can soften pain to ease,
"and make despair and madness please
"this the divine cecilia found,
"and to her husbands ears, confind the sound. "
vide st cecilias day' 19 september 1791
hand-coloured etching. Date: 1791. Dimensions: Height: 312 mm; Width: 213 mm. Medium: paper. Depicted People: Lady Cecelia Johnston. Collection: British Museum. "Patience on a monument." (BM 1868,0808.6101)
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