Maria Gunning

Maria Gunning (1733 - September 30, 1760) was a famous London beauty and society hostess during the reign of King George II.

She was born at St Ives in Cambridgeshire of Irish parentage, the sister of Elizabeth Gunning. Both sisters came to London in 1751, and in the following year Maria married the Earl of Coventry. Her popularity was such that she was mobbed when she appeared in Hyde Park.