The Armada Portrait of Elizabeth I
English School (formerly attributed to George Gower) · 1588
Why it's great
Queen Elizabeth I rests her hand on a globe, a symbol that she ruled the seas, while behind her are scenes of the Spanish Armada's defeat in 1588. This is the most famous portrait of an English queen and was painted to celebrate the victory.
🏛️ Part of history
Elizabeth I & the Spanish Armada (1558–1603) — Queen Elizabeth I rests her hand on a globe, a symbol that she ruled the seas, while behind her are scenes of the Spanish Armada's defeat in 1588.
Where to see it
📍 Location not recordedWe couldn't confirm where it hangs today. Museums sometimes move or lend paintings, so check the museum's website before you travel.
Hang it on your wall
Three places to look for a print of this painting, from budget to museum-grade:
These links open search results on each shop's own website; we don't sell anything or earn a commission, and print quality varies by seller. Ask a grown-up before you buy anything.
The Armada Portrait was painted by an unknown English artist in 1588. It was once thought to be by George Gower, Queen Elizabeth's Serjeant-Painter, but experts now believe it came from a workshop of several painters, and it exists in a few versions.
