Sir Walter Ralegh (1552-1618), Soldier, sailor, poet and writer

Sitter associated with 47 portraits
A poet, explorer, soldier, sailor, courtier and favourite of Elizabeth I, Ralegh was a true 'Renaissance Man'. Much of his literary work is lost but about thirty short poems and various prose works survive, including The History of the World. He organised and financed a number of expeditions to North America and in later life made several unsuccessful attempts to find gold in South America. Ralegh was accused of plotting against James I and spent much of his reign in the Tower. He was executed for treason in 1618.