The Disturbing Reality Behind Elizabeth I’s Famous Pale Makeup

Published on 08/03/2021
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Annes Ears Might Have Never Heard The Infamous Nickname

It is most likely that Anne was free of having her feelings hurt by a certain horrible nickname. “The Flanders Mare” was a cruel epithet that many people wrongly believed was coined by Henry to describe Anne during their marriage. It is widely believed that it came about in 1679, coined by the cruel tongue of Gilbert Burnet, the former Bishop of Salisbury. It is amazing how our understanding of history continues to change and evolve.

Annes Ears Might Have Never Heard The Infamous Nickname

Annes Ears Might Have Never Heard The Infamous Nickname

While Anne was promised to Henry to be attractive by various well-wishers leading up to their marriage, many historians believed that she was plain-looking. We have presented evidence that could sway this opinion, and her infamous nickname could have been wrongly assigned. If one had to look at Holbein’s portrait, for example, this likeness shows a woman that is incredibly beautiful. We might never know the truth, but we are sure that Anne did not look like a horse.

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Annes Burial Was A Royal Affair

Anne was young when she passed away in July 1557 at the youthful age of 41. It is suspected that she had cancer. Although the woman might have died from a terrible illness, her burial would splendid. This was largely thanks to her close relationships with the daughters of her ex-husband. Mary I was adamant that Anne’s funeral should be as grand as was appropriate for a queen. The quality of their friendship was clear in this ceremony.

Annes Burial Was A Royal Affair

Annes Burial Was A Royal Affair

Anne’s casket was shrouded with gold cloth, and ceremonial candles were kept lit for days. Anne was finally placed in Westminister Abbey on August 3, 1557. She would be the only member of Henry’s extended failed marriage list who would be afforded such a location to be laid to rest in. If you visit her burial place, you will see that her modest epitaph says, “Anne of Cleves, Queen of England. Born 1515, died 1557.”

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