Queen Mary, the first Queen Consort of England, is often described as a striking and elegant woman. While portraits and descriptions from the time offer insight into her appearance, it's crucial to remember that these are interpretations influenced by the artistic trends and social norms of the era.
Physical Appearance
- Hair: Queen Mary was known for her auburn hair, which she often wore styled in elaborate updos or braids.
- Eyes: Descriptions suggest she had blue or grey eyes, often described as bright and piercing.
- Complexion: Queen Mary was said to have a fair complexion, which she maintained with the help of beauty products and practices common in the 16th century.
- Height: Queen Mary was of average height for her time, standing around 5'4".
- Figure: She is often portrayed as having a slender figure, with a small waist and a full skirt.
Fashion and Style
Queen Mary's fashion choices reflected her status as Queen. She favored rich fabrics like velvet, satin, and brocade, often embellished with pearls, jewels, and embroidery. Her gowns were typically fitted at the waist and flared out into a full skirt, creating a dramatic and elegant silhouette. She also wore elaborate headdresses, often adorned with feathers, jewels, and veils.
Portraits and Depictions
Numerous portraits of Queen Mary exist, offering a visual representation of her appearance. Some of the most famous include:
- The "Darnley Portrait": This portrait, painted around 1560, depicts Queen Mary wearing a black velvet gown with a jeweled collar and a pearl necklace.
- The "Fraser Portrait": This portrait, painted around 1563, shows Queen Mary in a white satin gown with a richly embroidered bodice and a pearl necklace.
While these portraits provide valuable insight into Queen Mary's appearance, it's important to remember that they were created by artists who were influenced by the artistic trends of the time. As such, they may not represent a completely accurate depiction of her real appearance.
