Who was Mary Stuart?

Mary Stuart was born at Linlithgow Palace on 7th December 1542 to James V of Scotland and Mary of Guise. Mary actually became queen 6 days later due to her fathers death.

Her mother was chosen as regent and had Mary sent to France in 1548.

In 1588 she married Dauphin Francis who succeeder his father to the throne the following year.

Many Roman Catholics recognised Mary as the rightful ruler of England after Mary I died, instead Protestant Elizabeth succeeded her. Her claim to the throne was based on the fact that she was the granddaughter of Margaret Tudor, sister of Henry VII. To Catholics her claim was stronger as Henry's Marriage to Elizabeth's mother Anne Boleyn was seen as illegal.

Miniature portrait of Mary c.1558, by unknown artist
http://www.marileecody.com/maryqos/maryring.jpg

In this portrait, dated the year Mary married Francis, I find that she has a striking resemblance to wary portraits to that of her cousin, Elizabeth. The face is also similar, the skin is incredibly pale, but there is absence of any additional colour to the cheeks or lips as seen in many portraits of Elizabeth. I find Mary's complexion in this portrait to be absolutely beautiful, her skin is almost glowing and the is only greater emphasised by the coral tones of her costume. 

It is thought that this portrait represents one the happiest times in Mary's life when she married to her first husband, i think this is reflected in her strong pose, glowing skin and the richness of the dress. 

In 1560 at the tender age of 18 Mary's husband died. Unwilling to remain in France under the rule of her mother in law, Mary chose to take her chances with Protestant reformers back in Scotland. 

When Mary returned to Scotland, still Queen, she tried to balance new protestantism with her catholic faith. 

In 1565 she married her cousin Henry Stewart, Lord Darnley.

Portrait of Mary c.1565 by unknown artist
http://www.marileecody.com/maryqos/maryqosclouetdark.jpg

I find this portrait dated 1565 more sombre in tone to the previous selection from 1558. Marys hair appears less radiant and her hair has darkened considerable to what looks now brunette. I find the make up to be fairly similar, he skin is still very ale and flawless with absence of any cheek or lip colour, her eyebrows are faint but visible which was actually fairly unusual for nobles in England at this time. The high collar in this portrait as well as the heavily jewelled costume represent to me and high social standing. 

This marriage was never acceptable to the protestants. Mary felt betrayed by her protestant advisors and thus withdrew some of her support from the reformed church. Her marriage with Darnley soured and refused him the right to succeed her if she died.

In 1566 Mary gave birth to a son, James.

Information adapted from http://www.marie-stuart.co.uk