Elizabeth of Valois

Painted around the time of her marriage to King Philip II of Spain, this portrait of Elizabeth of Valois, daughter of King Henri II of France, captures not only her noble bearing and splendid costume, but also a hint of a lively personality. Fourteen at the time of her wedding, Elizabeth (1545–1568) was the third wife of 33-year-old Philip (ruled 1556–1598). Their marriage in 1559 was part of peace negotiations ending 60 years of war between France and Spain.

François Clouet was court painter to a succession of French kings, including Francis I (ruled 1515–1547) and Elizabeth’s father Henri II (ruled 1547–1559). His portraits combine intense observation of detail—such as the elaborate silver-and-pearl-embroidered costume with its fashionable slashed sleeves, lace ruff collar, and pearl headdress—with a formal elegance.