The Anglo-Dutch Favourite, The Career of Hans Willem Bentinck, 1st Earl of Portland (1649-1709).
Hans Willem Bentinck was the closest confidant of William III and arguably the most important politician in Williamite Britain. Beginning his career in 1664 as a page to William of Orange, his fortunes gained momentum with the Prince's rise to power in The Netherlands and Britain, emerging as William's favourite at court from the 1670s onwards.
Taking a broadly chronological approach, this book explores the wider political themes within a European context. By analysing Portland's role within William's government it shows how royal favourites could still wield considerable influence on European events and help shape royal policy, particularly with regard to foreign policy.
- Paperback
- 297 pages
An intimate portrait of Hans Willem Bentinck and William III, copied from Soubre's original by Sneltons in 1914 can be seen in our current exhibition, Unseen Treasures, as well as a collection of ornate seventeenth-century Dutch silver.
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