Henry, Prince of Wales

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Henry, Prince of Wales

by Isaac Oliver
watercolour on vellum, circa 1610
2 in. x 1 5/8 in. (51 mm x 41 mm) oval
Purchased, 1910
Primary Collection
NPG 1572

On display in Room 5 on Floor 3 at the National Portrait Gallery

Sitterback to top

Artistback to top

  • Isaac Oliver (circa 1565-1617), Miniature painter. Artist or producer associated with 73 portraits, Sitter in 5 portraits.

This portraitback to top

In this distinctive and unusual miniature Henry is shown in profile wearing Roman armour and a richly embroidered toga, like a figure on an ancient Roman coin or medal. This profile depiction and Roman costume reflect Henry's interest in classical coins and medals.

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Portrait setback to top

Subjects & Themesback to top

Events of 1610back to top

Current affairs

Lady Arabella Stuart, cousin of James I, secretly marries William Seymour, Marquess of Hertford.
James I's chaotic finances prompts Robert Cecil, Earl of Salisbury to submit to Parliament the great contract which proposed increases to the king's income for James's relinquishment of his feudal rights; however, it was not implemented.

Art and science

The Alchemist, by playwright Benjamin Jonson, is first performed by the acting troupe, the King's Men. Jonson also writes Prince Henry's Barriers, in honour of Henry, Prince of Wales.
Stationers' Company agrees to give Thomas Bodley a copy of every book registered with them for his growing Bodleian Library.

International

Henry IV, King of France, is assassinated in Paris by Catholic fanatic, François Ravaillac. Henry, born a Calvinist, converted to Catholicism before ascending the throne to appease his future subjects. Although a popular king, much loved by his people, two earlier attempts had been made on his life.

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