Queen Elizabeth I, Second Great Seal

Designer Nicholas Hilliard (British, 1547-1619)

CultureBritish

Dateafter 1584

Mediumwax and remnant parchment

Dimensions6 9/16 × 4 15/16 in. (16.7 × 12.5 cm)

Classificationssculpture

Credit LineThe Michael N. Joyner Collection

Object number2023.24.34

DescriptionThis second seal was in use from 1586-1603. An impressive example of Elizabethan iconography and expressions of power. Queen Elizabeth I is shown on the recto enthroned and on the verso on horseback. She is surrounded by symbols of her kingdoms, including a fleur-de-lis, the Tudor Rose, and the Irish harp. The legend around the seal reads: ELIZABETHA DEI GRACIA ANGLIE FRANCIE ET HIBERNE REGINA FIDEI DEFENSOR (Elizabeth, by the Grace of God, Queen of England, France, and Ireland.)

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