Portrait of Josette du Pres

The portrait of Josette du Prs is a fictional item featured in the 1966-1971 daytime Gothic soap opera series Dark Shadows. Although there has never been any significant plot elements associated with the portrait, it has appeared in many episodes and is one of the more memorable props used in the series.

History
The portrait of Josette du Prs was commissioned by Naomi Collins in 1796 and was hung prominently in the original Collinwood estate known as the Old House In modern times, the portrait could still be found hanging over the mantle in the parlor. David Collins would often spend many afternoons in the Old House staring at Josette’s painting

In 1897, Barnabas Collins was upset to see the portrait had been moved and accused Magda Rakosi and her husband of pawning it. Later that same year, Lady Hampshire and Barnabas were drawn through the portrait to the year 1797

In 1967, Barnabas Collins moved into the Old House and relocated the painting from the drawing room and placed it in the second floor bedroom once occupied by Josette in 1795. David Collins was angry that Barnabas moved the painting, but Barnabas promised him that he could visit the Old House whenever he wished in order to see it – a promise that David would come to abuse on more than one occasion