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Countess of Shrewsbury
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Countess of Shrewsbury
COUNTESS OF SHREWSBURY Known also as BESS OF HARDWICK Date: 1518 - 1608
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 574054
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10009679
Countess Hardwick Pearl Ruff Shrewsbury
EDITORS COMMENTS
Bess of Hardwick: The Countess of Shrewsbury (1518-1608) - A Portrait of Power and Prosperity This portrait captures the essence of Bess of Hardwick, the Countess of Shrewsbury, a remarkable woman who rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most influential figures in Elizabethan England. Born in 1518, Bess was the daughter of a Derbyshire farmer, yet through her shrewd marriages and business acumen, she amassed vast wealth and power, acquiring numerous estates and titles. The pearl-encrusted ruff collar adorning Bess's neck in this portrait is a symbol of her affluence and status. The intricately designed collar, a popular fashion accessory during the Elizabethan era, was made from layers of starched linen, often embellished with precious pearls and other costly materials. Bess's striking appearance and bold gaze convey her strength and determination. Her piercing eyes, framed by heavy black eyeliner, gaze directly at the viewer, daring them to challenge her authority. Her perfectly coiffed hair, piled high on her head and held in place with elaborate combs, is a testament to the time and resources she devoted to her appearance. Despite her wealth and power, Bess's life was not without controversy. Her fourth marriage to the Earl of Shrewsbury, who was more than twice her age, raised eyebrows and fueled gossip. However, Bess proved to be a shrewd and loyal wife, using her influence to secure her husband's favor and protect her interests. This portrait, taken from the Mary Evans Picture Library, offers a glimpse into the life of a woman who defied convention and left an indelible mark on English history. Bess of Hardwick's story is one of ambition, power, and survival, and her legacy continues to inspire and intrigue scholars and history enthusiasts alike.
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