Catherine of Braganza
- Artist: Dirck Stoop
- Date: circa 1660-1661
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Dimensions: 48 1/2 in. x 39 1/2 in. (1232 mm x 1003 mm)
- Portrays: Catherine of Braganza
- Museum: The National Portrait Gallery
- Collection record: The National Portrait Gallery website
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About this artwork
In this portrait Catherine of Braganza sits in her new country’s royal attire. The artist, by or after Dirck Stoop, worked with oil on canvas around 1660‑61. Notice the rich lace band that drapes across her shoulders and the wide farthingale skirt she wears; both are hallmarks of Portuguese court style of the time.
Her hair is set in a distinct Iberian style, lending the portrait an unmistakable continental flair. Stoop actually accompanied her on her journey from Lisbon to London, so the painter could capture her true look.
Catherine was the third daughter of John, Duke of Braganza, and became Queen consort when she married Charles II in 1662. The union helped bring English backing for Portugal during its war against Spain, and it also brought a large dowry that included Tangier and Bombay. This painting captures both her regal dignity and the cultural exchange at the heart of England’s court.
See it in person
Catherine of Braganza is in the collection of The National Portrait Gallery at St Martin's Place, London — free to enter. Point your phone at any artwork there and audioguide.london plays a free audio guide in six languages — no app download needed.
