The 'Darnley Portrait'...

The 'Darnley Portrait'...

The queen is shown looking regal and remote, wearing a rather masculine doublet and carrying an ostrich -feather fan. The portrait is known the 'Darnley portrait' after its previous owner. The colours in the portrait have changed significantly over time. The recent analysis has shown that Elizabeth's now extremely pale complexion would have been much rosier as the reds in the flesh paint have faded over time. The common assumption that Elizabeth always had very pale features appears to be a myth. However, we know that in the later part of her reign she did wear pale make-up. The whole painting would have also been much more vibrant. The embroidery on the queens dress for example would have appeared far richer and part of the golden brown pattern would have originally been crimson.

 

Costume

The meanings conveyed through portraits of Elizabeth relied greatly on her clothes and accessories. The masculinity of the queens polish-style doublet in the portrait helps to create an image of a woman who is an equal among her male counterparts in other European countries. The luxurious silk of the dress and silver gilt thread on the sleeve reflect her wealth and style.

 

The Pendant and fan.
 

The exquisitely painted pendant jewel hanging from the queens waist is a large red ruby surrounded by Roman gods. Minerva (the goddess of wisdom) is depicted at the top, Jupiter (ruler of the gods) at the base and Venus (goddess of love), Cupid and Mars (gods of love and war) at the sides. Elizabeth was highly educated and it is possible that this jewel refers to her classical learning.

 

Ines Gutierrez, (2013), Unknown Continental Artist, Elizabeth I, [ONLINE]. Available at: http://artinacity.blogspot.co.uk/ [Accessed 09 October 13].