Queen Elizabeth I (1533–1603)
Nicholas Hilliard (Exeter c.1547 – London 1619)
Category
Art / Miniatures
Date
Unknown
Materials
Oil on vellum
Measurements
100 mm (H)85 mm (W)
Order this imageCollection
Ham House, Surrey (Accredited Museum)
NT 1140182
Caption
This is one of the finest and largest miniatures of Queen Elizabeth to employ the 'Mask of Youth'. Historian Sir Roy Strong coined this phrase to describe idealised depictions of the Queen as eternally youthful. In this miniature, Elizabeth is also suitably represented as the bejeweled and costumed majesty of state. This miniature was executed around 1590 by Nicholas Hilliard, the Queen's most sensitive and consistent portrayer. It was the inspiration for later paintings of her such as the 'Rainbow Portrait' at Hatfield House and the great whole-length portrait at Hardwick Hall (see NT 129128). The Green Closet at Ham House is the only example in Britain of a picture closet complete with its original collection of miniatures. The miniatures, which number 87, were valued personal keepsakes. This one in particular would have been highly prized by the family.
Summary
Portrait miniature, oil on vellum, Queen Elizabeth I (1533–1603) by Nicholas Hilliard (Exeter c.1547 – London 1619). Three-quarter length portrait, turned slightly to the left in elaborate dress and ruff, right hand fingering a jet necklace at her bosom. Green-grey eyes, fair hair in tight curls and sumptuous jewels, pale shadowless complexion. Brilliant blue background with black and gold chair post to right.
Makers and roles
Nicholas Hilliard (Exeter c.1547 – London 1619), artist
Exhibition history
Elizabethan Treasures: Miniatures by Hilliard and Oliver, National Portrait Gallery, London, 2019
References
MacLeod 2013: Catharine MacLeod (ed.), The Lost Prince. The Life and Death of Henry Stuart, exh.cat., venue: National Portrait Gallery, London 2013, pp. 112-113