Isabella Clara Eugenia as a Nun of the Order of Saint Clare

After the death of her husband Albert, Isabella Clara Eugenia of Spain would dress only in the habit of the Poor Clares. Yet she never became a nun. Her clothing was an outward display of mourning, piety, and humility. At the same time, she signalled a political message: that as a pious widow, she could remain governess while combining power with religious modesty. She supported and promoted Rubens, who also worked for her as a diplomat.