What is agnes sorel?

Agnès Sorel (c. 1422 – 9 February 1450) was a favorite mistress of King Charles VII of France. She is considered the first officially recognized royal mistress.

• Role at Court: Agnès Sorel exerted considerable influence over the king. Described as intelligent and ambitious, she is credited with improving the image of the French court through her fashion and patronage of the arts. She encouraged Charles VII to be more assertive and involved in governance, urging him to resist the influence of advisors.

• Relationship with Charles VII: Her close relationship with Charles VII was very public. She was granted the title of Dame de Beauté and received gifts and properties from the king. Some contemporaries criticized the king for lavishing attention on her while France was still recovering from the Hundred Years' War.

• Legacy: Agnès Sorel's extravagant lifestyle and influence made her a controversial figure. After her sudden death, there were suspicions of poisoning, although the cause was likely dysentery. She is remembered as a significant figure in 15th-century French history, both for her relationship with Charles VII and her impact on the court. Her influence helped pave the way for future royal mistresses to hold a position of power and influence. Her impact on French fashion was also notable.

• Death: Sorel died suddenly in 1450 after giving birth to her fourth child. Suspicion of poison surrounded her death. A 2005 forensic examination concluded that she most likely died of mercury poisoning, but whether this was administered intentionally or for medical reasons is still uncertain. This examination lead many to question the cause of death.

• Children: She had at least four daughters with Charles VII. Their daughters were legitimized by Charles VII.