This 12.5 x 6 foot canvas honors an iconic feminine power, successful leader, and resilient feminist. Queen Elizabeth I’s power is highlighted by her dress’s embellishments, the scepter she holds between her toes, and the symbolic ermine at her feet. Her bodice contains an excerpt from her speech at Tilbury, her sleeves feature subtle crosses to reference her commitment to Protestantism, and her skirt comprises of the iconic tudor rose of which dynasty she belonged. Her ruff is illustrated with a fleet of Spanish armada ships like the ones she defeated under her reign. On either side of her shoulders sit Katherine Champernowne Ashley and Blanche Perry, two women who raised, taught, and guarded the queen as she grew up. Her scepter’s stone is sourced from her “three brothers pendant” which was one of the most famous stones Elizabeth owned. Surrounding her are the ethereal bodies and faces of her loyal subjects whom she loved dearly. Underneath her is a bed of olive branches, with which she was often pictured, to symbolize her peaceful reign, and the moon out the window references her association to Cynthia, the goddess of the moon, because of their shared virginity and purity. Ultimately, this painting explores Queen Elizabeth’s femininity, drive, and heavy influence in history.

Published: September 30, 2016