Although the sitter in this portrait was traditionally identified as Elizabeth I, she bears little relation to known portraits of her. She is sumptuously dressed: the bodice of her dress is adorned with a ring and heart-shaped jewel; a watch and small key hang at her waist; her left arm is decorated with an elaborate sort of necklace studded with faces and jewels; and her head dress is made up of costly pearls. She is, therefore, a woman of noble birth. Since the picture came from Melton Constable, it is possible that the woman was from a grand family, local to the Astleys in Norfolk.

This & ‘Darnley’ are in the same sort of heavy-scrolled giltwood frame, topped by the crowns of England and Scotland (King consort’s only) respectively. Could she be from a grand family local to the Astleys?

Provenance: Previously on loan from Lord Hasting.

Text from National Trust website

Object description
Type: Easel painting
Location: Seaton Delaval Hall, Northumberland
Material: Oil on canvas
Artist: British (English) School
Date: unknown

Image Details
Date: 29 September 2023
Camera body: iPhone Xs
Lens: Wide Camera 26mm ƒ/1.8
Focal Length: 26mm
Aperture: ƒ/1.8
Shutter Speed: 1/27s
ISO: 800
Licensing: Image of a National Trust asset. This image cannot be licensed.