Pendant with a miniature of Elizabeth I

c.1600

Nicholas Hilliard

Purchased by George IV, when Prince Regent, 1816(?)

Oval enamelled gold miniature case with large suspension loop. Opaque white enamel hinged lid set with a central old table-cut diamond surrounded by six table-cut rubies. The case has flat dark translucent blue enamel reverse and a convex edge with opaque white enamel background with blue dots and flowers alternating with oval cartouches outlined in gold.

The miniature by Nicholas Hilliard (1547-1619) is close in period to his ‘Ermine’ portrait at Hatfield House, dated 1585. ...