Robert Devereux, 2nd Earl of Essex

1 portrait by Nicholas Hilliard

Robert Devereux, 2nd Earl of Essex, by Unknown artist, circa 1587 - NPG - © National Portrait Gallery, London

© National Portrait Gallery, London

Robert Devereux, 2nd Earl of Essex

by Unknown artist
watercolour and bodycolour on vellum, circa 1587
9 3/4 in. x 8 in. (248 mm x 203 mm)
Accepted in lieu of tax by H.M. Government and allocated to the Gallery, 1994
Primary Collection
NPG 6241


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This portrait was probably painted after Essex was made Master of the Horse in 1587. Essex is shown here as a knight of the accession day tilting tournament that took place at court in November each year. He is depicted in elaborate armour on which is embroidered his impresa of diamonds within a circle; the motto reads 'DUM FORMAS MINUIS'. He wears what is probably the Queen's glove tied to his arm. His horse, held by an attendant, rears in anticipation behind him. The battle scene beyond may refer to his command of the cavalry at Flushing in the Netherlands a few years earlier.

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