Elizabeth I | Power, Authority & Infrared Technology

Queen Elizabeth I was a master when it came to portraiture. She used her portraiture to project an image of strength, power and authority.

Symbolism played a vital role in Elizabeth’s portraits; motifs of honeysuckle and acorns, dispersed throughout her opulent costume, are symbolic of love and growth. The nesting birds distributed throughout her skirt are possibly in reference to her mother, Anne Boylen, but equally may refer to themes of motherhood, abundance and Elizabeth’s role of protector of the kingdom.

Infrared technology reveals the artist’s underdrawing which strongly suggests that the artist used a head pattern. Visit our exhibition for further information on this portrait.