National Portrait Gallery - Favourite Portrait

'The Real Tudors' exhibition featured many portraits of Elizabeth I, however my favourite of the day was one I hadn't previously come across.

Elizabeth I, Early 17th Century - Unknown Artist
Hanging in 'The Real Tudors' Exhibition
(http://www.andreazuvich.com/history/the-death-of-queen-elizabeth-i/)

The reason I was so drawn to this image of Elizabeth is because of how sculpted her face looks. In this portrait elizabeth's features appear very angular, in particular her nose and eyes. i actually think the way she appears in this portrait brings out her pale complexion and makes it even more beautiful. The reason for painting her in this manner may have been to portray as her as strong and healthy considering this portrait appeared near the end of her reign it could have been created as a method of showing other nations that she remained fitting fit and at the top of her game. The other factor of the portrait Im fond of is how heavily adorned she is with pearls, this symbolised her wealth and high status.