Artwork

Portrait of Elizabeth I of England

Portrait of Elizabeth I of England, by Cristofano dell'Altissimo, tempera, 1592
Portrait of Elizabeth I of England, by Cristofano dell'Altissimo, tempera, 1592

Portrait of Elizabeth I of England is a tempera painting by the Mannerist artist Cristofano dell'Altissimo. It dates from 1592 and is held in the collection of the Uffizi Gallery.

About this work

Overview

This tempera painting is a portrait of Elizabeth I of England, created in 1592 by Cristofano dell'Altissimo, an Italian artist active in Florence.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is depicted wearing formal attire, including a black dress, high-necked collar, gold necklace with pearls and gems, and a black hat, indicating her high social status, likely royalty.

Technique & Style

The painting is characterized by its dark background, which highlights the subject's features, and a high level of detail, showcasing the artist's skill. It is associated with the Mannerist movement.

History & Provenance

The portrait was created as part of dell'Altissimo's work copying the Giovio Series for Duke Cosimo I de' Medici and is now held in the Uffizi Gallery.

Artist & collection

Artist

Cristofano dell'Altissimo

Cristofano dell'Altissimo (c. 1525 – 1605) was an Italian painter in Florence. For duke Cosimo I de' Medici he copied in Como at least 280 of the portraits from the Collection of Paolo Giovio known as the Giovio Series…

Uffizi Gallery

Museum

Uffizi Gallery

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