[PDF] queen elizabeth 1 portraits explained

What is the most important portrait of Queen Elizabeth I?

One of the most important portraits of Queen Elizabeth I is the Darnley Portrait of c. 1575. It is believed that this was one of few portraits that were painted from life. The face of Elizabeth as depicted here became the template for many other representations of her afterward. The Darnley Portrait, c. 1575, National Portrait Gallery, London, UK.

What are the Mariological attributes in Elizabethan portraits?

Mariological attributes in portraits of Elizabeth are common, indicating her virginity and chastity; she essentially becomes more than her gender. Symbols such as the Rose, the Star, the Moon, the Phoenix, the Ermine and the Pearl all feature in Elizabeth’s portraits, signifying and representing the Virgin Mary.

Why did the government issue portraits of the Queen?

It was, therefore, essential that the portraits showed an image of Elizabeth that would impress her subjects. At intervals throughout her reign, the government issued portraits of Elizabeth that were to be copied and distributed throughout the land. No other portraits of the Queen were allowed.

What happened to Queen Elizabeth's portraits?

Some earlier portraits may have been lost over the years, but in all probability very few were produced. Elizabeth, the "illegitimate" daughter of the king by the brazen Anne Boleyn who died a traitor's death, was simply not important enough for there to be a great demand for her picture. However, once she was Queen, paintings of her flourished.