Trivial Biographies: Catherine de' Medici

NAME Catherine de' Medici (born Caterina Maria Romula di Lorenzo de' Medici)

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Queen consort of France (1547–1559), regent for her sons, and a powerful political figure known for her influence during the French Wars of Religion.

BIRTH Born on April 13, 1519, in Florence, Republic of Florence.

FAMILY BACKGROUND Her father was Lorenzo II de' Medici, Duke of Urbino and her mother Madeleine de la Tour d'Auvergne, Countess of Boulogne.

Both parents died shortly after her birth, leaving Catherine orphaned as an infant.

CHILDHOOD Catherine de' Medici's childhood was marked by tragedy and upheaval. Her mother, Madeleine de La Tour d'Auvergne, died from a violent fever shortly after Catherine's birth, and her father, Lorenzo de' Medici, Duke of Urbino, succumbed to his injuries and disease complications in May 1519.

Initially, her paternal grandmother, Alfonsina Orsini, looked after her until 1520 Following Alfonsina's death, Catherine's aunt, Clarice de' Medici, took charge of her upbringing.

In 1527, when Catherine was eight years old, the Medici family was overthrown in Florence. During this tumultuous period, she was taken hostage and placed in several convents.

EDUCATION Catherine received an excellent education during her time in the convents and under the care of her relatives. Educated in the Italian Renaissance tradition, she excelled in literature, philosophy, and arts. She also received training in diplomacy, which would prove essential later in life.

CAREER RECORD 1533 Married Henry II of France in 1533.

1547 Became Queen of France upon Henry's ascension

Served as regent for her sons Francis II and Charles IX.

Exercised significant political influence during the French Wars of Religion.

APPEARANCE Catherine de' Medici's appearance was often described as unremarkable, with several distinctive features. She was small in stature and thin, with facial features that were not considered delicate or beautiful by contemporary standards. Protruding eyes, a characteristic often associated with the Medici family, were a prominent feature. Her mouth was reportedly large, and her eyes were described as prominent and colorless.

Despite not conforming to traditional beauty standards, Catherine possessed a certain elegance that made her attractive. Some modern observers find her appearance more appealing than her contemporaries did, suggesting that beauty standards have evolved over time.

As she aged and after having multiple children, Catherine's appearance naturally changed. Later portraits depict her as somewhat chubbier with a more stern and less friendly expression. However, it's crucial to remember that her physical appearance did not diminish her political influence or her capabilities as a ruler.

Catherine de' Medici (age 30s), as Queen consort of France (1550s). Portrait at the Uffizi Gallery.

FASHION Catherine de' Medici was not just a powerful queen but also a trendsetter who significantly influenced French fashion in the 16th century. Her contributions went beyond mere aesthetics, introducing both practical and luxurious styles that reflected her power and cultural influence.

Catherine's impact on French fashion stemmed from her Italian heritage. She introduced several novelties, forever changing the way French nobility dressed.

She forever changing the way French nobility dressed. For instance, she brought the concept of "rear reins," essentially pantaloons, which offered a practical solution for women riding horses. These undergarments quickly became a status symbol, often adorned with elaborate decorations.

High-heeled shoes were another Italian import popularized by Catherine. These heels, reaching a height of 10 centimeters, were a source of great curiosity at the French court, likely due to their novelty and the added height they provided the queen.

Furthermore, Catherine is credited with introducing and popularizing metal corsets. These rigid garments reshaped the female figure into a conical silhouette, a stark contrast to the previously favored hourglass figure. She even devised a specific corset design to achieve a smaller waist.

Catherine's influence extended beyond just clothing. She is credited with bringing the use of perfume to France, utilizing scented spheres to combat unpleasant odors. Her personal perfumer, René le Florentin, became highly sought-after by the French aristocracy.

She also played a role in popularizing specific embroidery styles. "Punto madama," a geometric and intricate embroidery technique, is attributed to her invention. The upstanding "Medici collar," made of Venetian lace, also gained popularity during this era, though its direct connection to Catherine remains unclear.

Catherine's elegant and refined taste significantly contributed to the rise of Italian fashion in France, with its influence spreading throughout Europe. She championed the use of handkerchiefs, undergarments, perfume, and even perfumed gloves, all of which became staples in the wardrobes of the French nobility. Her fashion choices were not merely about aesthetics; they served as a powerful display of wealth and status, setting trends that the French court eagerly followed.

Catherine declared 13-inch waists fashionable and banned women with thick waists from court.

Even in the modern era, Catherine's influence on fashion is undeniable. In 2022, Maria Grazia Chiuri, creative director of Dior, drew inspiration from Catherine de' Medici for her Spring/Summer 2023 collection. This collection reimagined elements like corsets and platform shoes in a contemporary light, showcasing the enduring legacy of Catherine's fashion sense.

CHARACTER Ambitious and politically astute, Catherine was determined to maintain power for her family. She was known for her sharp intellect, cunning, ruthlessness, and determination.

Catherine was also deeply paranoid, often employing spies and intricate networks to stay informed.

SPEAKING VOICE Catherine was a persuasive speaker, often using rhetoric to achieve her aims.

SENSE OF HUMOUR Catherine de' Medici, despite her reputation as a ruthless ruler, had a sharp wit and dark sense of humor. When explaining a poisoning incident to her husband Henry, Catherine quipped, "He wasn't blind until after I poisoned him, don't make it sound so cruel". This dark joke demonstrates her ability to find humor in even the most serious situations.

During an execution she orchestrated, Catherine made a witty remark about the struggling victim. When a man she had hanged was fighting against his fate, proclaiming "I will not be diminished by a woman," Catherine dryly responded, "Yes, I can see that"

RELATIONSHIPS Catherine de' Medici married Henry, Duke of Orléans (later King Henry II of France) on October 28, 1533, at the Église Saint-Ferréol les Augustins in Marseille, France. Both Catherine and Henry were 14 years old at the time of their wedding.

The marriage was a lavish affair, marked by extravagant displays and gift-giving. Catherine's wedding gown was so richly bejeweled that it was impossible to discern its color. The ceremony was performed by Pope Clement VII, Catherine's relative who had arranged the marriage.

Catherine and Henry's marriage, painted seventeen years after the event

Their wedding night was closely supervised, with King Francis I reportedly staying in the bedroom until the marriage was consummated. He noted that "each had shown valour in the joust". The Pope even visited the newlyweds in bed the next morning to add his blessings.

Despite the grand ceremony, Catherine and Henry's marriage was not a happy one. Henry was deeply in love with his mistress, Diane de Poitiers, who wielded significant influence over him. Catherine was often sidelined and humiliated in the relationship.

Regarding children, Catherine and Henry initially struggled with fertility issues. For the first ten years of their marriage, Catherine remained childless, leading to gossip at court about her infertility. However, in 1544, she gave birth to their first son, Francis II of France. Eventually, Catherine and Henry had a total of ten children, with seven surviving to adulthood. Their other children included: Elizabeth of Valois, Queen of Spain, Claude of France, Duchess of Lorraine, Charles IX of France, Henry III of France, Margaret of Valois, Queen of France, Hercule, Duke of Alençon (later Francis, Duke of Anjou).

Catherine outlived all her children except Henry III and Margaret

MONEY AND FAME Catherine de' Medici's fame and fortune were inextricably linked to her illustrious family background. The Medici family, renowned for their wealth amassed through textile trade and banking, had established themselves as a powerful political force in Florence. This wealth translated into significant influence, providing Catherine with a substantial dowry upon her marriage to Henry II of France. The Papacy contributed 100,000 gold écus to compensate for the loss of her Florentine estates, further solidifying her financial standing.

Catherine's arrival in France was a spectacle of wealth. She brought with her a treasure trove of riches, including ropes of pearls, bejeweled rings, and golden belts adorned with rubies. Her wedding attire was so lavishly adorned with jewels that its original color was obscured. Beyond material wealth, Catherine brought with her a rich cultural heritage from Florence, influencing French cuisine, fashion, and the art of perfumery.

Despite her considerable wealth, Catherine's marriage to Henry II was initially met with some skepticism in France. Alliances between royalty and merchant families like the Medici were still uncommon, and some considered her dowry insufficient. However, Catherine's wealth and influence grew significantly throughout her time in France, particularly after becoming queen and later serving as regent for her sons.

Catherine's fame extended far beyond her wealth. She emerged as a formidable political figure, wielding significant power during her reign and becoming one of the most influential women in 16th-century Europe. Her political acumen was instrumental in navigating the turbulent waters of the French Wars of Religion, ensuring the survival of the French monarchy during a period of great upheaval.

FOOD AND DRINK Catherine de' Medici had a discerning palate and introduced several culinary innovations to the French court. She favored vegetables such as broccoli, peas, artichokes cooked in wine, and asparagus. She also brought Italian desserts to France, including ice cream, jams, jellies, marzipans, gingerbreads, nougat, glazed chestnuts, and macaroons.

Furthermore, Catherine popularized onion soup, known then as carabaccia, and introduced vegetables with béchamel sauce, called salsa colla in Italy. Notably, she separated savory and sweet dishes, serving them as distinct courses rather than together, a significant shift in dining etiquette. Her talented cooks created new dishes, such as duck with orange and pâté de foie, further enriching French cuisine. (1)

Catherine de' Medici is also credited with introducing the use of forks to France. In 1533, upon her marriage to Henry II, she brought forks from Florence to the French court. At a court dinner, she demonstrated the proper use of a three-pronged fork, showcasing how to eat meat without using one's fingers. This introduction of the fork was part of Catherine's broader effort to improve dining etiquette and hygiene at the French court.

The use of forks gradually spread from the royal palace to the homes of the wealthy throughout France, although it took time for diners to fully embrace this new utensil.

She introduced the use of damask tablecloths to the French court and revolutionized table settings, including the use of tablecloths that were changed between courses.

MUSIC AND ARTS Catherine de' Medici was a passionate patron and enthusiast of music and the arts, leaving a significant mark on the French Renaissance. Her love for the arts manifested in various ways. She organized lavish court festivals featuring music, poetry, and dance performances, creating spectacular spectacles that entertained and engaged the French nobility.

Catherine was a discerning collector, amassing a vast collection of artworks, including tapestries, sculptures, and hundreds of paintings. She also commissioned numerous portraits of her family and courtiers from renowned artists like Jean and François Clouet, ensuring their images would be preserved for posterity.

While she appreciated all forms of art, architecture held a special place in her heart. Catherine initiated several ambitious building projects, leaving a lasting architectural legacy. She also played a crucial role in the development of ballet, introducing it to the French court and providing essential financial support for its growth.

Catherine's patronage of the arts served multiple purposes. Lavish festivals and performances helped to bolster royal prestige and distract the nobility during a period of civil unrest. Moreover, art provided a powerful means of self-promotion, allowing Catherine to create a lasting visual legacy for herself and her family.

The impact of Catherine's artistic patronage is still felt today. Her art collections are now displayed in museums worldwide, and her architectural projects, such as those at Fontainebleau, remain visible testaments to her enduring legacy.

LITERATURE Catherine de' Medici greatly enjoyed literature and was a passionate bibliophile. She collected and cherished books, moving the royal collection to the Louvre, her principal residence2. Catherine believed in the humanist ideal of the learned Renaissance prince and was familiar with the writings of Erasmus and other scholars.

Catherine's court was highly literary, and she delighted in the company of learned men and women. Her government officials were also well-versed in literature, with some even translating classical works. Catherine occasionally wrote verses herself, which she would share with court poets.

As a true Medici, Catherine continued her family's tradition of patronage of learning and literature. She established a visual narrative surrounding family and power through her various commissions, including literary works4. Her love for literature was part of her broader passion for the arts and culture, which she used to bolster royal prestige during a time of civil unrest.

NATURE Catherine de' Medici did enjoy nature and incorporated it into her surroundings. She created extensive gardens at her properties, particularly at the Château de Chenonceau. There, she established waterfalls, planted mulberry trees to raise silkworms, and created spaces for exotic animals.

PETS She created an aviary for rare birds at Chenonceau and made space for several exotic animals that had been gifted to the Crown

HOBBIES AND SPORTS Chess was a known pastime of Catherine, with a handwritten chess manual listed among her possessions after her death.

While not an athlete herself, Catherine recognized the importance of sports and physical activities in court life and used them strategically for political purposes.

She watched games like paillemaille and paulme (a precursor to tennis) played by others at court.

Catherine organized and presided over martial sports and tournaments as part of court entertainments.

She introduced changes to traditional sports, forbidding heavy tilting after her husband's death in a tournament accident.

SCIENCE AND MATHS She showed little interest in science but was keenly observant and analytical, applying logic to her political strategies.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY Catherine de' Medici's approach to religion and philosophy was characterized by a blend of pragmatism and skepticism. While nominally Catholic, she never fully embraced the fervent faith of her contemporaries. Religious differences were primarily viewed through a political lens, serving as bargaining chips in her intricate court maneuvers.

Despite her religious skepticism, Catherine maintained a strong belief in astrology and necromancy, reflecting a curious blend of skepticism and superstition. She issued edicts of tolerance, such as the Edict of Saint-Germain, in attempts to appease the Protestants and consolidate her power.

However, Catherine often failed to fully grasp the depth of religious convictions driving both Catholics and Protestants. This misunderstanding hindered her attempts at reconciliation and ultimately contributed to the escalation of religious violence.

Ultimately, Catherine's philosophy was driven by a singular goal: to maintain power and ensure the survival of her dynasty. Religious and moral convictions, while not entirely absent, were secondary to this overarching objective.

REIGN AS QUEEN At the tender age of 14, Catherine was married off to Henry, Duke of Orléans, the future King Henry II of France. When Henry ascended to the throne in 1547, Catherine officially became Queen of France, though her real moment of power came after Henry’s untimely death. As the mother of three successive kings—Francis II, Charles IX, and Henry III—she essentially ruled France during one of its most tumultuous periods, the French Wars of Religion. Think of her as a Renaissance-era CEO trying to manage a company constantly on the verge of bankruptcy while its employees bickered over which deity deserved their loyalty.

Catherine’s political skills were nothing short of Machiavellian. She deftly maneuvered between Catholic and Protestant factions, occasionally tossing in a massacre or two for good measure (Saint Bartholomew’s Day, anyone?). But her legacy isn’t just blood-soaked—it’s also delightfully cultured. Catherine was something of a Renaissance influencer. She introduced forks to France, brought Italian culinary wonders like artichokes and sorbet to the French table, and had a flair for fashion that included corsets and stilettos. Her court became synonymous with elegance, sophistication, and a whiff of danger.

Yet Catherine’s life wasn’t all intrigue and innovation. She had her quirks. She maintained a squad of beautiful ladies-in-waiting known as the "flying squadron," whose job was less about etiquette and more about seduction and spying. She even arranged a marriage for a courtier with congenital hypertrichosis (a condition that inspired Beauty and the Beast) without disclosing his furry affliction to the bride.

By the time of her death in 1589, Catherine had left an indelible mark on France. She was a woman of contradictions: a devoted mother who occasionally seemed to view her children as chess pieces, a champion of culture whose name remains associated with political ruthlessness, and a queen whose influence continues to fascinate history buffs and storytellers alike.

POLITICS She played a central role in French politics, using diplomacy, alliances, and occasionally force to maintain power during a volatile era.

Catherine was influenced by the principles outlined in Machiavelli's The Prince, She prioritized political expediency over moral or religious absolutes. This focus on practical maneuvering led her to adopt a "Politique" mindset, seeking compromises between Catholics and Protestants to maintain stability in the realm.

SCANDAL While Catherine is remembered as one of the most powerful French queens of the early modern period, her legacy is controversial. She is often associated with the violent religious conflicts of her time, particularly the Massacre of Saint Bartholomew's Day in 1572

Her "flying squadron" of ladies-in-waiting was notorious for seducing courtiers to gather intelligence or secure alliances.

MILITARY RECORD Although not a military leader, she orchestrated strategies during the French Wars of Religion.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Catherine suffered from recurring health issues, including the aftermath of overeating at times, such as her indulgence in cockerel kidneys and artichoke bottoms.

HOMES Catherine de' Medici resided in and commissioned several notable residences during her life in France.

Château de Chenonceau: After the death of her husband, Henry II, Catherine acquired the renowned Château de Chenonceau from his mistress, Diane de Poitiers. She significantly expanded the château, adding a magnificent gallery built over the River Cher, a unique architectural feature. Catherine also created a new garden, known as "Catherine's Garden," expanded the surrounding vineyards, and commissioned two new buildings and an apothecary. Chenonceau became a venue for lavish court festivities, including the infamous "naked breast ball" of 1577.

Palais des Tuileries: In 1563, Catherine embarked on the ambitious construction of the Palais des Tuileries in Paris. Built on the site of former tile kilns near the Louvre, it was intended to be the largest royal construction project of its time in Western Europe. Inspired by the Palazzo Pitti in Florence, the Tuileries Palace reflected Catherine's Italian heritage and her desire to create a grand and lasting monument.

Hôtel de la Reine: In 1572, Catherine purchased the Hôtel de la Reine, located at the site of the current Paris Commodities Exchange. This residence featured a striking 31-meter high astrological column, erected in 1574. According to some accounts, Catherine chose this location based on an astrological prediction concerning her death.

Château de Montceaux: Catherine initiated renovations at the Château de Montceaux in 1555, including the construction of a grotto designed by the renowned architect Philibert Delorme. However, these renovations remained unfinished at the time of her death in 1589.

In addition to these residences, Catherine lived in the Palazzo Medici-Riccardi during her youth in Florence and resided at the Château de Fontainebleau, where her bedroom can still be seen today. Before the construction of the Tuileries, the Louvre served as her primary residence in Paris.

Catherine's architectural projects were a testament to her ambition and her desire to leave a lasting legacy. They reflected her Italian heritage and her appreciation for grand and impressive constructions.

TRAVEL She traveled extensively within France and to Italy, where she maintained ties with her Medici roots.

Catherine de' Medici's travels during her grand tour of France from 1564 to 1566 were a grand affair. When weather permitted, she would travel on horseback, often riding alongside other nobles. For her comfort, she brought along six of her finest horses. In inclement weather or when necessary, she would travel in a horse-drawn litter.

For longer journeys, Catherine utilized a spacious, six-horse-drawn coach. Lined with green velvet and cushions, this opulent vehicle was akin to a small room on wheels, allowing her to conduct state business while on the move. Whenever possible, the royal family preferred to travel by water, utilizing elaborate and ornate royal barges.

The scale of Catherine's traveling entourage was immense. Thousands of individuals, including court members, servants, and essential personnel, accompanied the royal party. The sheer volume of supplies transported was staggering, ranging from furniture and cooking utensils to costumes for festivals and even portable triumphal arches.

DEATH Catherine de' Medici died on January 5, 1589, at the Château de Blois in France. She was 69 years old at the time of her death. The cause of her death was likely pleurisy, a lung infection that had progressed over several months.

Catherine's death occurred during a tumultuous time in France. In the months leading up to her passing, she had witnessed her son Henry III's authority being contested, and she felt powerless as she watched political events unfold.

Catherine was initially buried in the Saint-Sauveur church in Blois.

In 1610, her remains were moved and reburied at the Basilica of Saint-Denis, near Paris, to lie beside her husband, Henry II.

The Basilica of Saint-Denis was the traditional burial site for French monarchs from the 10th to 18th centuries. Catherine and Henry II's tomb, created between 1560 and 1573, is a monumental construction featuring marble of various colors and bronze statues of Virtues at the four corners.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Catherine has been portrayed in numerous films, TV series, and books, often as a shrewd and Machiavellian figure.

1. FILMS

La Reine Margot (1994) Catherine was portrayed by Virna Lisi in this critically acclaimed French historical drama. The film focuses on her daughter Margaret of Valois (La Reine Margot) and depicts Catherine as a manipulative political schemer, particularly during the St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre. Virna Lisi won the Best Actress award at Cannes and a César for her chilling portrayal.

Queen Margot (1954) An earlier adaptation of Alexandre Dumas's novel, featuring Catherine in a similar scheming role.

Diane (1956) Played by Marisa Pavan, Catherine appears as a supporting character in this biographical drama about Diane de Poitiers, the lifelong mistress of Henry II.

The Serpent Queen (2022) Samantha Morton stars as Catherine in this dark, satirical series exploring her rise to power. It offers a modern, biting take on her political savvy and reputation as a ruthless ruler.

TELEVISION

Reign (2013–2017) In this CW historical drama, Megan Follows portrays Catherine as a cunning, politically astute, and fiercely protective queen. The show mixes historical events with fictionalized drama, leaning into Catherine's reputation for intrigue and her role as a "power behind the throne."

The Medicis: Godfathers of the Renaissance (2004) This docudrama series explores the Medici family's influence, including Catherine’s contributions to French culture and politics.

LITERATURE

La Reine Margot (1845) by Alexandre Dumas. Catherine plays a key role in this historical novel, which dramatizes her involvement in the St. Bartholomew’s Day Massacre.

Madame Serpent (1951) by Jean Plaidy Part of the Catherine de Medici Trilogy, it delves into her early life and marriage to Henry II.

Catherine de Medici: Renaissance Queen of France (2003) by Leonie Frieda. A detailed biography that sheds light on her complex character and contributions.

The Devil’s Queen (2009) by Jeanne Kalogridis A fictionalized account of Catherine’s life, highlighting her supposed dabbling in the occult alongside her political maneuverings.

OPERA

Les Huguenots (1836) by Giacomo Meyerbeer. This grand opera depicts events around the St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre, with Catherine as a pivotal character orchestrating political turmoil.

VIDEO GAMES

Civilization VI (2016) Catherine appears as the leader of France. The game emphasizes her diplomatic and espionage skills, highlighting her historical reputation as a master of court intrigue.

ART AND CULTURAL REFERENCES

Catherine is a recurring subject in Renaissance and Baroque art, often depicted in allegorical scenes or family portraits emphasizing her Medici heritage.