Queen Mary I

Sitterback to top

• Queen Mary I (1516-1558), Reigned 1553-8; daughter of Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon. Sitter associated with 49 portraits.

Artistback to top

• Hans Eworth (active 1540-died 1574). Artist associated with 21 portraits.

This portraitback to top

This portrait was based on a sitting from the life in 1554. The large pendant pearl which hangs from her elaborate necklace in this portrait is thought to be 'La Peregrina' given to her by Philip at the time of her wedding. When he first met Mary, Philip is said to have cursed those who had painted her for having exaggerated her attractions.

Linked publicationsback to top

• Tudor Portraits Resource Pack, p. 22
• Cooper, John, Visitor's Guide, 2000, p. 21
• Cooper, Tarnya; Fraser, Antonia (foreword), A Guide to Tudor and Jacobean Portraits, 2012, p. 32
• Gittings, Clare, The National Portrait Gallery Book of The Tudors, 2006, p. 16
• John Cooper, National Portrait Gallery Visitor's Guide, 2006, p. 21
• MacLeod, Catharine, Tudor Portraits in the National Portrait Gallery Collection, 1996, p. 22
• Ribeiro, Aileen, The Gallery of Fashion, 2000, p. 37
• Saywell, David; Simon, Jacob, Complete Illustrated Catalogue, 2004, p. 416

Portrait setback to top

• Miniatures: Highlights

Subjects & Themesback to top

• Flowers and plants
• Hats and head-attire
• Jewellery