Life Model 101: Agnes Sorel #agnessorel #agnessorelismyhero

Agnes Sorel was born in 1422 in Fromenteau, France. She was the daughter of a minor nobleman, but Agnes was destined for greatness. At the young age of 22, she found her way into the court of King Charles VII, becoming the first "official mistress" --Madame De Pompadour has her to thank-- She came to the royal court as she was an attendant to King Charles sister, the queen of Sicily, Isabel of Lorraine. It is said that Agnes studied the ways of the court in order to know the best way to behave and incorporate herself amongst the nobles and royalty. Her beauty captivated the King who threatened to leave his pregnant wife for Agnes. This role of first "official mistress" or "favourite" scandalized the country, as this had never been heard of or spoken of openly. He gave her wealth, castles, land, secured her a position meant for a queen, in turn she was able to give him wise council, helped persuade dignitaries to fund the war efforts, as well as four children. The freedom given to her by the king allowed Agnes to make bold choices with her style, from form-fitting busty dresses, and lots of diamond jewelry, which the King had previously had outlawed others to wear, only himself. Agnes defied that rule, causing an uproar and making him love her more. The most famous of Agnes Sorel style is captured in a painting by Jean Fouquet where Agnes is pictured as the virgin Mary showcasing her fashion choice of revealing one breast alongside a low cut form fitting dress. In addition to clothing, Agnes was a foodie, loved fine dining, and loved to cook. Her special taste has inspired many a chef, cook, and food enthusiast. Agnes Sorel's death at the age of 28, after the premature birth of her fourth child, was under shadowy circumstances. It was suspected that she was poisoned and in 2004, led by french historian, Philip Charlier, Agnes body was exhumed and studied, finding high amounts of mercury, commonly a cure for parasites which she had experienced, yet this was an unseemly amount, including in her hair. Thus, it was finally conceded that Agnes Sorel death was murder, most likely, guided by King Charles V11's son, Louis, jealous of her position and worried about his future, however, this is still conjecture. With the advancement of modern technology, Charlier and his team were able to reconstruct Agnes' face with the use of her skull, gaze upon her likeness. For more about Agnes Sorel, to learn about other life models in history, and to know what it is to be a Life Model, check out my course "Life Model 101" at cafegirlproductionsinc.com Filmed by Michael Meyer #agnèssorel #agnessorelismyhero