Mary Compton

Mary Sackville, Countess of Dorset (née Lady Mary Compton), was born in 1669. She was the daughter of James Compton, 3rd Earl of Northampton, and Mary Noel, daughter of Baptist Noel, 3rd Viscount Campden. In 1685, she married Charles Sackville, who was the 6th Earl of Dorset at that time. The couple resided at Copt Hall, Waltham Abbey, Essex.

As an aristocrat and courtier, Mary Sackville served as Lady of the Bedchamber to Queen Mary II. She was also notably among the Hampton Court Beauties, a series of portraits painted by Sir Godfrey Kneller for Queen Mary, depicting the most celebrated women of the court.

Mary and Charles Sackville had two children. Their son, Lionel Sackville, was born in 1688 and later became the 1st Duke of Dorset, a title bestowed upon him in 1720. He lived until 1765, reaching the age of 77. Their daughter, Lady Mary Sackville, was also born in 1688 and died in 1705. She was the first wife of Henry Somerset, 2nd Duke of Beaufort. It is not well documented whether she had any children.

Mary Sackville died on 6 August 1691 at the age of 22, due to smallpox. Her early death occurred shortly after her marriage and the birth of her children.

Her portrait as the Countess of Dorset has been preserved, notably painted by Sir Godfrey Kneller. The portrait is part of collections associated with Christie's auction house and the National Portrait Gallery.