Sir Nicholas Bacon

Sitterback to top

• Sir Nicholas Bacon (1510-1579), Lord Keeper of the Great Seal. Sitter associated with 13 portraits.

Artistback to top

• Unknown artist. Artist associated with 6232 portraits.

This portraitback to top

Bacon is shown here holding his staff of office and the 'burse', a bag containing the seal, embroidered with Elizabeth's royal coat of arms. He wears an elaborate jewel, which is probably a whistle, at his chest. The inscription at the top right can be translated as 'the middle course is most secure'.

Related worksback to top

• NPG D19193: Sir Nicholas Bacon (source portrait)
• NPG D25367: Sir Nicholas Bacon (source portrait)
• NPG D31840: Sir Nicholas Bacon (source portrait)

Linked publicationsback to top

• Saywell, David; Simon, Jacob, Complete Illustrated Catalogue, 2004, p. 28
• Strong, Roy, Tudor and Jacobean Portraits, 1969, p. 15

Subjects & Themesback to top

• Crests and Coats of Arms
• Hats and head-attire
• Jewellery