Anne of Cleves (Ears Up) D6653 – Large – Royal Doulton Character Jug

Anne of Cleves Ears Up D6653 (black and red coloration). Designed by Michael Abberley. Series: Henry VIII and His Six Wives; Royalty, issued 1980 – 1981. Size 7.25″H (Large)

In a political arrangement by Thomas Cromwell, Anne of Cleves (1515 – 1557) was chosen to marry Henry VIII upon seeing his dull and unattractive betrothed, whom he later referred to as his “Flanders Mare,” Henry attempted unsuccessfully to break the contract. Anne became his fourth wife on January 6, 1540, for only a brief time. Henry had the marriage annulled on July 8th of that year and gave Anne a pension of life.