About this piece
back to topA fascinating 19th century English School oil on board portrait of Queen Elizabeth I; one of 11 similar portraits of eminent personages we are selling.
Painted in oils, these portraits capture each character in fine detail before a dark or near-black background, each wearing notable clothing and headpieces.
While some figures are unidentified, this one is clearly a depiction of 16th century Queen, Elizabeth I, who ruled as monarch of England and Ireland from 1558 to 1603. In this portrait, Elizabeth is painted as she is often seen in portraiture with her reddish hair topped with an intricate headdress, her impressive pleated lace ruff and an opulent jewelled dress. To the left of the picture is a royal sceptre which would be held in her right hand.
Though the maker is unknown, the eleven oil portraits are undoubtedly by the same artist as they share the same stylistic details. Each is mounted in alike ebony and gilded frames, making them perfect for use as a set or in pairs. You can just imagine the complete set of portraits mounted along the walls of a long hallway in a large old 18th century or earlier mansion!
Provenance:
The collection of Mr & Mrs Gerald Scarfe. Possibly Edwards & Son (according to Sotheby’s).
Exhibited:
Decorating the Royal Pavilion for The Royal Show, Warwick, June 1892.
Plucknett & Co. Showrooms, Warwick, 1892-1908 (present portraits supplied by Plucknett of Warwick, with their labels on reverse).