Elizabeth I (1533-1603), koningin van Engeland 1557 - 1619

This exquisite miniature of Queen Elizabeth the First was painted by Nicholas Hilliard, likely in the late 16th century. The Queen’s elaborate ruff, crown, and jewels are not merely decorative; they broadcast her power and status in a society deeply concerned with visible displays of hierarchy. Made in England, this was a time when portraiture, especially of the monarch, was carefully controlled. Consider the context: the Tudor dynasty used portraiture to solidify their legitimacy and project an image of strength and stability amidst religious and political turmoil. Hilliard, as a court artist, played a crucial role in shaping the visual identity of the Queen. The miniature format itself speaks to the intimacy and personal nature of power, perhaps intended as a gift or diplomatic token. To fully understand this image, historians delve into sources such as court records, costume inventories, and diplomatic correspondence. The art, after all, is never truly separate from the complex society that produces it.