Sir Theodore Turquet de Mayerne

1 portrait by Paul van Somer

© National Portrait Gallery, London

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Sir Theodore Turquet de Mayerne

attributed to Paul van Somer
oil on canvas, feigned oval, 1621 or before
29 3/4 in. x 23 3/4 in. (757 mm x 604 mm)
Purchased, 2000
Primary Collection
NPG 6538

Sitterback to top

Artistback to top

  • Paul van Somer (circa 1576-1621), Portrait painter. Artist or producer associated with 36 portraits.

This portraitback to top

Mayerne's costume, a red robe like a Roman toga, suggests associations with classical antiquity and particularly with the learning of ancient Rome. The inscription around the painting, now partially lost, refers to his position as physician to James I and Charles I, and to his title as seigneur of Aubonne, a property he bought in Switzerland.

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Events of 1621back to top

Current affairs

Parliament assembles amid fears of Catholicism sweeping Europe. Initially, it enthusiastically supports James I's proposal for diplomatic intervention in Bohemia, however, upon hearing of his considerations towards a Spanish marriage, Parliamentarians adamantly refuse to grant further funds.
Lord Chancellor Bacon is found guilty of corruption under revival of judicial impeachments.

Art and science

The University of Oxford Botanic Garden, is founded as a physic garden by Henry Danvers.
The appearance of the first newspaper in English, the Corante, translated from a Dutch coranto, promises reports from Europe but is prevented from containing English news under the Star Chamber Decree, 1586.

International

Philip IV of Spain ascends the throne at the age of sixteen.
In France, Louis XIII moves to eradicate the rebellion by Huguenots who fear renewed persecution. After several victories, he is forced to abandon his siege of the city of Montauban, a Huguenot stronghold.

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