Nell Gwynne

Restoration darling - one of the king's stable.
AKA
Eleanor Gwyn
Born
1650
Died
1687
Portrait Year
1670
Portrait Age
20

Born Eleanor, she was a popular comic actress. Her father was Thomas Gwynne, a Royalist Army Captain during the English Civil War. Called "pretty, witty Nell" by Samuel Pepys, she has become the embodiment of the spirit of Restoration England and a folk heroine. Her rags-to-royalty tale was the result of her becoming the mistress of King Charles II. Nell bore Charles two sons, both of whom were recognized by the king. Her rivalry with French-born mistress Louise de Kerouaille became legend, often making the latter the butt of pranks or jokes.

Video
Region
England