Clara Elisabeth Von Platen

Clara Elisabeth, Countess von Platen-Hallermund (14 January 1648 – 30 January 1700), was a German noblewoman born at Schloss Monplaisir, located in what is now the Von-Alten-Garten in Hannover. She was the eldest daughter of Georg Philipp von Meisenbuch-Züschen (1610–1669) and his wife Anna Elisabeth von Meisenbuch (1620–1681), who was also a relative.

Her early life included efforts by her father to secure positions for her and her sister at the French court in Versailles. When this was unsuccessful, he arranged for them to serve at the court of Ernest Augustus, Elector of Hanover. Clara Elisabeth served as a lady-in-waiting to the Duchess Sophia during this period.

Clara Elisabeth attracted the attention of Ernest Augustus and exerted considerable influence on him. She became his lifelong mistress and had two children with him: Ernst August (1674–1726) and Sophia von Kielmansegg (1675–1717). Despite her relationship with the Elector, she was married to Franz Ernst, Baron or Count (Reichsgraf since 1689) von Platen-Hallermund (1631–1709).

She was involved in notable events and scandals at the court, including the Königsmarck affair, a significant episode in the political and social life of the time. Her involvement and her relationship with Ernest Augustus have been discussed in various historical and literary works.

Her death occurred on 30 January 1700 at Schloss Monplaisir. She was a figure of interest primarily due to her position at court and her relationships with influential figures of her time.

Further biographical and historical information about her life can be found in sources such as writings by Paul Gerhard Zeidler, Paul Morand, Thea Leitner, and Elisabeth E. Kwan with Anna Eunike Röhrig.