Anne of Cleves
(1515-1557), Fourth Queen of Henry VIIISitter associated with 14 portraits
Outliving all of Henry VIII's wives, Anne of Cleves was the Queen of England for a brief six months, while married to the King. The wedding was encouraged by Thomas Cromwell and the House of Cleves, both seeking a strong alliance in Europe. Hans Holbein the Younger was sent to paint portraits of Anne and her sister for Henry's consideration, who came to consider the likeness poor and complain that she was plain and uneducated. Despite his resistance, the marriage went ahead on January 6 1540, but was annulled on the grounds that it was unconsummated in July of the same year. Anne received Hever House in the settlement and remained on good terms with Henry, often being referred to as the King's beloved sister.
Explore the portrait of King Henry VIII and his Six Wives (NPG D48093) from all angles
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