An unknown woman, possibly Margaret Douglas, Countess of Lennox
1 of 10 portraits of Margaret Douglas, Countess of Lennox
© National Portrait Gallery, London
An unknown woman, possibly Margaret Douglas, Countess of Lennox
by Unknown artist
oil on panel, circa 1560-1565
15 7/8 in. x 12 5/8 in. (403 mm x 321 mm)
Given by Hugh Welch Diamond, 1874
Primary Collection
NPG 401
Sitterback to top
- Margaret Douglas, Countess of Lennox (1515-1578), Mother of Lord Darnley. Sitter associated with 10 portraits.
This portraitback to top
The identification of this portrait as Margaret Douglas is not certain, but is based upon facial similarity to other known portraits. The portrait may have been cut down from a larger composition. The relative starkness of the composition and costume focuses attention on the individualised facial features, delicately painted collar, and large pendant.
Linked publicationsback to top
- Smartify image discovery app
- Saywell, David; Simon, Jacob, Complete Illustrated Catalogue, 2004, p. 688
- Strong, Roy, Tudor and Jacobean Portraits, 1969, p. 199
Linked displays and exhibitionsback to top
- Framing the Face: Collars and Ruffs (19 February 2016 - 16 July 2017)
- Hidden: Unseen paintings beneath Tudor Portraits (3 January 2013 - 2 June 2013)
Subjects & Themesback to top
Events of 1560back to top
Current affairs
Treaty of Edinburgh between England, France and Scotland. France removes forces from Scotland and Mary, Queen of Scots abandons her claim to the English crown.An independent Scottish Parliament is established in Edinburgh, which in turn establishes the Church of Scotland. Influenced by the Protestant reformer John Knox, the reformed church abolishes papal authority in Scotland.
Art and science
Publication of Jing P'Ing Mei (The Plum in the Golden Vase) by Hsu Wei, the first socially realistic Chinese novel.International
Death of Francis II of France. He is succeeded by his brother Charles IX with his mother, Catherine de Medici, as Regent. His widow, Mary, Queen of Scots, returns to Scotland the following year.Akbar, Mughal Emperor of India, establishes a new capital at Agra.
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