Ancient Faces

de bene esse: literally, of well-being, morally acceptable but subject to future validation or exception

Born in 1841 She was a woman who became a nineteenth century icon and inspiration. From the New York Times, 1863; "She is, in a word, an accomplished lady — intelligent, pleasant, modest and agreeable. She is very lively in conversation, and speaks with all the confidence, and even wit, of an accomplished and talented woman. She is fond of poetry, music, eloquence, and the fine arts generally; indeed, she is quite as charming mentally as she is physically. Her eye is bright, her smile sweet, her hair dark, and her figure perfection itself."

Who is she?