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Maria Anne Fitzherbert (née Smythe) (1756-1837), Famous beauty; morganatic wife of George IV

Sitter in 24 portraits
A woman of tact and discretion, Mrs Fitzherbert was one of the great beauties of her day. Although a Catholic and a widow she was persuaded to marry the Prince of Wales in a secret ceremony in 1785. The marriage was illegal. The Prince did not have the King's approval and the heir could not marry a Catholic without forfeiting the right to the throne. Mrs Fitzherbert was condemned to a life of deception as the Prince's 'mistress'. She patiently maintained this position for almost a decade after George's official marriage to Caroline of Brunswick in 1795.

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D12863

'Pacific overtures, - or - a flight from St Cloud's - "over the water to Charley" - a new dramatic peace now rehearsing'

by James Gillray, published by Hannah Humphrey
hand-coloured etching, published 5 April 1806
NPG D12863

D12871

'Visiting the sick'

by James Gillray, published by Hannah Humphrey
hand-coloured etching and aquatint, published 28 July 1806
NPG D12871

D310

'The Tatler' introducing the Member for Brighthelmstone, Mr Wm. Teeling, introducing Sir Shane Leslie introducing Mrs Fitzherbert introducing The Prince Regent who requires no introduction.

by Anthony Wysard
pen and ink and wash, 1946
NPG D310

D15167

Maria Anne Fitzherbert (née Smythe)

by Thomas Holloway, published by John Sewell
line engraving, published 1786
NPG D15167

Links
Marble Hill House, Twickenham, Surrey
Category
Royalty, Rulers and Aristocracy
Place
Surrey