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GERARD VALCK (1651/2–1726) AFTER SIR PETER LELY (1618-80)

Louise, Duchess of Portsmouth

1678

RCIN 657497

Louise de Kéroualle, Duchess of Portsmouth and Aubigny, supplanted Barbara Villiers in Charles II's affections in 1670 and remained his principal mistress until his death. Both French and Catholic, Louise aroused fascination and suspicion in equal measure. The late 1670s saw an increase in the number of printed portraits of Louise in circulation, perhaps linked to a rise in anti-Catholic sentiment resulting from fears over the succession.

Cat. 170

    The income from your ticket contributes directly to The Royal Collection Trust, a registered charity. The aims of The Royal Collection Trust are the care and conservation of the Royal Collection, and the promotion of access and enjoyment through exhibitions, publications, loans and educational activities.