This is one of six portraits first recorded in Kensington Palace in 1818 (RCIN 403916, 404349, 406141, 406152, 406160 & 406782), all inscribed in French with the sitter’s identity in gold capitals (seeming to run behind the head) and apparently in the same script. The works are not of identical dimensions and are of very different quality, nor do their frames match. It would seem that they were brought together by an antiquarian collector (who was presumably French). They probably joined the Royal Collection through Queen Caroline, who also acquired a set of old English Kings and their relations (RCINs 402708, 402740, 403045, 404196, 404740, 404743-5, 404748-9). The group divides into two sets of three: one of semi-mythical Queens from history (RCIN 406152, 406160 & 406782) and one (to which this portrait belongs) dealing with the early history of the Bourbon monarchy in France (RCIN 403916, 404349, 406141). These three are united in theme – depicting Henry IV of France, his mistress (in this case) and his daughter-in-law. 

Gabrielle D’Estrées, Duchess of Beaufort (1573-99) was the confidant and lover of Henry IV, who advised the King to take the throne of France by becoming Catholic and to use it to promote religious tolerance. After the annulment of his first marriage, the King was prevented from marrying her only by her death at the age of 26.

Described politely as ‘curious’ in the Kensington inventory of 1818, this portrait is a crude replica of an unknown composition. The sitter wears a starched ruff over an embroidered robe with full sleeves, and pearls at her neck; a drop pearl earring hangs from her left ear.

Inscribed: LA BELLE GABRIELLE DVCHESSE DE BEAUFORT