MARY Robinson's life and literary genius will be celebrated in a ground-breaking exhibition.

A pioneering actress turned influential writer, Robinson was overlooked for many years due to scandalous romantic liaisons, including one with the Prince of Wales.

The exhibition will launch next month, shedding light on her innovative fashion trends, diverse writings and her time in the radical circle around William Godwin and Mary Wollstonecraft.

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Mary Robinson (Image: George Dance)

On display will be rare and early editions of her work, Robinson's manuscript of the Memoirs, unique portraits, engravings and documents, including letters detailing her financial negotiation with the Royal family.

Following her footsteps from an actress to influential writer, the exhibition is a must-see for those interested in this remarkable woman's contribution to art, fashion and literature.

(Image: National Portrait Gallery London/John Hoppner)

Chawton House curator Emma Yandle said: "Mary Robinson might be the most famous woman you’ve never heard of, who could be described as the first modern celebrity. She was a great beauty and muse to the top society artists of the day, whilst simultaneously being savaged in the press, (slut shamed as we would say today), for her romantic life.

"However, off the back of this infamy, she managed to forge a successful career as a writer. Throughout her career, we see her resisting the limiting definitions foisted upon her at the outset of her life. Using Robinson’s own words to guide the narrative, the exhibition reveals how she was an active agent in her life story, who carefully fashioned her identity, to reputational and financial ends."