Elizabeth had many enemies and it w

Elizabeth had many enemies and it was not safe for her to travel around the country. She chose, instead, to use portraits to show herself to her people. It was essential that the portraits showed an image of her that would impress her subjects.
‘The Coronation Portrait’
This portrait shows Elizabeth just after the coronation. The picture shows her as a young, beautiful, innocent girl with pink cheeks and long hair. Her rich gold gown, jewels and fur show her wealth. She is also wearing the crown and holding the Orb and Sceptre to show her royal authority. The message of the picture is that although she is young and beautiful, she has the power to rule the country.
‘The Armada Portrait’
This portrait celebrates the victory of England over the Spanish Armada. In the painting Elizabeth’s right hand rests on a globe. This symbolizes that England is a global power. On her right there is a crown. The pictures behind her show the English navy in bright sunshine, and ships of the Spanish Armada being destroyed in a storm.