Portrait of a Young Man, Probably Robert Devereux (1566–1601), Second Earl of Essex 1588

This miniature portrait of Robert Devereux, the second Earl of Essex, was painted in 1588 by the renowned English artist Nicholas Hilliard. The portrait, which measures just 1 5/8 x 1 3/8 inches, showcases Hilliard’s mastery of the miniature form. The sitter, a young man with a serious expression, is depicted against a vibrant blue background with intricate patterns. The delicate details of his lace collar and the inscription surrounding the image contribute to the overall sense of refinement and grandeur associated with this miniature. Hilliard's work exemplifies the high-quality craftsmanship and refined aesthetic of Elizabethan portraiture, often serving as a visual representation of aristocratic status.