Lady Jane Grey, often called the “nine-day queen,” was caught up in the fierce power struggles of the Tudor court. She ruled England for a mere nine days in July 1553 before being executed less than a year later. For a long time, historians have searched for a portrait of Jane created during her short life.
Recent research by English Heritage may have uncovered a possible portrait of her. This painting is believed to show Jane Grey, who was declared queen but quickly replaced by Mary Tudor.
According to English Heritage, there’s strong evidence suggesting that the artwork was altered after it was painted. Changes may have been made to present her as a Protestant martyr.
Using tools like infrared reflectography, English Heritage and the Courtauld Institute of Art examined the painting closely. They found that the sitter’s costume had modifications, including the sleeves and the addition of a white scarf. Intriguingly, the direction of her gaze was also altered; she initially looked to the right but now looks left. It’s likely that the scratches on her eyes and mouth were deliberate damages, possibly from those opposing her beliefs.
The research included dendrochronological analysis, which shows that the painting dates back to between 1539 and around 1571. The back of the panel even features a merchant’s mark, similar to one found on a royal portrait of King Edward VI.
Rachel Turnbull, a conservator with English Heritage, expressed excitement about the findings. She noted, “From the evidence of a once perhaps more elaborate costume to the deliberate scratching of her eyes, it’s possible we are looking at the remnants of a more royal portrait of Lady Jane Grey, toned down to reflect a Protestant martyrdom after her death.”
Jane Grey ascended to the throne on July 10, 1553, during a failed effort to block her Catholic cousin, Mary Tudor, from becoming queen. Just days after her proclamation, Mary took control, leading to Jane’s imprisonment. Initially reluctant to harm her, Mary ultimately saw Jane as a threat due to her Protestant support. Jane was executed at the Tower of London on February 12, 1554.
Today, Jane Grey is often viewed as an innocent victim. In famous artworks, like Paul Delaroche’s “The Execution of Lady Jane Grey,” she appears blindfolded and powerless. However, these portrayals were created posthumously. The newly attributed portrait will be displayed beginning Friday at Wrest Park in Bedfordshire, along with other related works.
Historical novelist Dr. Philippa Gregory shared her thoughts on the portrait, saying, “This is such an intriguing image, raising many questions. If this is indeed Jane Grey, it adds depth to her story, presenting her not just as a victim but as a woman of strength and character.”
