Betrothal portrait of Anne of Cleves

Betrothal Portrait of Anne of Cleves in the Louvre, painted in 1539, was commissioned by Henry VIII to evaluate his prospective fourth wife. The portrait's reportedly flattering likeness contributed to the king's disappointment upon meeting Anne in person. Henry ultimately described the marriage as unsuitable, and Anne agreed to an annulment in exchange for a generous settlement, but Holbein's role in the affair raised questions about the reliability—and the stakes—of diplomatic portraiture.

The frontal portrait presents Anne in her finest German costume with elaborate headdress and jewelry. Holbein's meticulous technique renders every detail of the rich costume while creating a serene, somewhat idealized likeness.