The Marquis

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Artist: Blair Cahill

Title: The Marquis

Attribution: The Marquis, 2025, Blair Martin Cahill

Year: 2025

Materials: Embroidery on Silk

Dimensions: 21" W X 16" H

Image Statement: In the late 1600s, a notorious figure known simply as "The Marquis" held sway over the high seas and noble courts alike. Born to both the nobility and the ocean’s depths, he possessed a glistening fish tail below his waist, a gift—or perhaps a curse—of his sea-bound ancestry. His life was a scandalous blend of decadence and debauchery, filled with high-stakes gambling, raucous champagne-fueled gatherings, and bawdy limericks that had a way of leaving his audiences both shocked and charmed. This eccentric Marquis was a regular at every dimly lit tavern and opulent salon, always spinning tales of exploits about his beloved ship, the HMS Piscaria. Manned by fish-like sailors of fierce loyalty and stranger origins, the Piscaria roamed the seas in pursuit of treasure and revelry. Together, this strange, seaworthy crew painted the coasts in hues of salt and scandal, leaving legends of their daring escapades whispered in every port.