Artwork

Shield of Queen Elizabeth

Shield of Queen Elizabeth, by Simon van de Passe, ink, 1621
Shield of Queen Elizabeth, by Simon van de Passe, ink, 1621

Shield of Queen Elizabeth is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Simon van de Passe. It dates from 1621 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Shield of Queen Elizabeth is a 1621 engraving by Simon van de Passe, derived from a silver medal.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving depicts a crowned shield with symbols of a lion and fleur-de-lis, flanked by figures holding a spear and sword. Latin inscriptions around the shield translate to 'For Queen Elizabeth, Defender of the Faith', a title commonly used by English monarchs.

Technique & Style

The print is characterized by detailed black lines on a light background, achieved through the engraving process, where the artist incised a metal plate to create the image.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Simon van de Passe

Artist

Simon van de Passe

Simon van de Passe (1595–1647) was an artist, born in Cologne.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.