Empress Wilhelmine Amalia of Brunswick was born on 21 April 1673 and was brought up in France by her great-aunt. Aside from being a recognised beauty, she was also noted for her pious and serene personality.
These traits caught the attention of the Imperial couple, who were seeking a suitable bride for their eldest son, Joseph. The young heir to the throne was a notorious womaniser, with numerous short-term lovers from all ranks of society. In particular, the Empress, who strongly disapproved of such behaviour, hoped that a sensible and mature wife would put an end to her son’s affairs. Joseph and Wilhelmine Amalia married in February 1699, and their first child was born in December of the same year.
Despite this promising beginning, the couple soon grew apart. In defiance of his wife, mother, and even the Pope, Joseph refused to change his habits — not even after a venereal disease, passed on to Wilhelmine Amalia by her husband, rendered her infertile. The Imperial couple had two daughters but no surviving son.
Beyond her troubled marriage, Wilhelmine Amalia proved to be a model empress. She loved music and theatre and fulfilled her official duties with diligence. During her thirty-year widowhood, she remained actively involved in social life and family matters, maintaining good relations with other members of the dynasty, including Joseph’s successor Charles VI and Empress Elisabeth Christine.
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