Lady Godiva. Artist: John Colier. Postcard The following is NOT printed on this postcard. Godiva, Countess of Mercia, was an English noblewoman who, according to a legend dating at least to the 13th century, rode naked – covered only in her long hair – through the streets of Coventry to gain a remission of the oppressive taxation that her husband imposed on his tenants. Famous tax protester, riding naked as a form of protest. Inspiration to many.