Artwork
Queen Elizabeth
Queen Elizabeth is an ink print by the Baroque artist Francis Delaram. It is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
The print 'Queen Elizabeth' is an engraving created by Francis Delaram in 1630. It is a portrait of a woman, presumed to be Queen Elizabeth, rendered in a style characteristic of Delaram's work as an English engraver with Flemish influences.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving depicts a seated woman adorned with a curly wig, heavy jewelry, and ornate clothing. A shield behind her features a lion and the motto 'DIEU ET MON DROIT', symbolizing royal authority. The subject's identity as Queen Elizabeth is inferred from the title, though the image lacks explicit contextual details.
Technique & Style
The engraving employs cross-hatching, a technique that uses closely spaced lines to create texture and shading. This style, typical of Baroque-era prints, allows for intricate detail and depth, evident in the rendering of the subject's clothing and facial features.
History & Provenance
Francis Delaram, likely born in Flanders around 1590, was known for his engraved portraits and book illustrations. His work, including 'Queen Elizabeth', reflects the artistic influences of his probable Flemish origins.
Artist & collection
Artist
Francis Delaram (born around 1590, fl. 1615–1624 or 1627), was an English engraver. Delaram left a substantial collection of engraved portraits, landscapes and book illustrations (specifically, William Camden's…
Henricus Percye (Henry Percy, Ninth Earl of Northumberland)
Charles I, as Prince of Wales
Sir Thomas Grisham
Guliemus Segar (Sir William Segar)
Thomae Gresham Equi. Aura (Sir Thomas Gresham)
Elizabeth, Queen of Bohemia
Willmus Burton de Falde (William Burton)
Henrici VIII Angliae, Franciae et Hiberniam Rex (King Henry VIII)
