Life-Size Bust of Anne of Cleves

Description / Expertise

Anne of Cleves was the fourth wife of King Henry VIII. In 1539, Hans Holbein the Younger was sent to northern Germany to paint the two sisters of the Duke of Cleves, Amelia and Anne.
From these paintings, Henry chose the latter, and they married in January 1540. Henry was, however, disappointed by her looks, and the marriage was annulled in July of the same year. Anne remained on good terms with the King, receiving the honorary title of ‘the King’s sister’, and property including Hever Castle in Kent, formerly Anne Boleyn’s home.