Artwork
Queen Elizabeth
Queen Elizabeth is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Martin Droeshout. It dates from 1610 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Queen Elizabeth is a print created by Martin Droeshout in 1610 using the engraving technique. It is a black-and-white work that honors the subject through symbolic imagery and text.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving depicts a crowned woman standing before a book and stage, with cherubs holding a crown above her. The cityscape labeled 'Woodstock' is visible on the right. The image is accompanied by a biblical quote, 'Many daughters have done well but thou surpassest them all,' suggesting the subject's exceptional virtue.
Technique & Style
Droeshout employed fine lines and shading to achieve depth, particularly in the subject's dress and the cityscape. The level of detail indicates the artist's skill with the engraving medium, which involves carving images into metal to produce printed copies.
Artist & collection
