Katherine Parr also spelled Catherine (1512-1548)
Katherine has been the subject of several novels, including The Sixth Wife by Allison Weir and The Taming of The Queen by Philippa Gregory.
By this point, most women in court saw Henry as someone who 'either putteth away or killeth his wives'. Katherine's first marriage took place when she was 14, to a 63 year old man. She raised three step children were older than her. She was widowed at 16, at which point she was her own mistress, and virtually independent. She married again in 1530. 13 years later she found herself widowed a second time and an independent woman of means.
She fell in love with Sir Thomas Seymour, but as fate would have it, Henry had decided to woo her himself. He did this by appearing 'sad, pensive and sighing' when she was around. She was dismayed when he finally proposed, but felt she had no choice but to accept. Katherine was capable, steady and sensible and while she came unwillingly to her role as Queen, she met the challenge well.
Henry died in 1547, and Katherine was free to marry Thomas Seymour, which she did just three months later. They had a daughter together, and she died in 1548, outliving the king by a year and 9 months.
Katherine is dressed in a rich merlot satin bodice and underskirt. Her neckline is embellished with gold trim and diamonds, and she wears a gold chain, a strand of pearls and a small golden charm. Her overskirt and sleeves are a tone on tone patterned merlot satin with gold floral embroidery. Her under sleeves are lined in golden silk. At her waist, she wears a vintage Intaglio pendant on a chain. Her french hood features a traditional black silk veil.