Symbolism in Elizabethan portraiture

http://www.corbisimages.com/images/Corbis-42-18333667.jpg?size=67&uid=3585558d-0b1a-4d04-8779-83a31dab4d48
date viewed 31st oct

This portrait is full of symbolism, this is by far one of my favourite in my eyes and the most iconic of Elizabeth I.

The first thing i notice about this portraits likely the same as anyone one else viewing it, is the battle ships in the background.To the left of Elizabeth are the English navy ships which are sailing on calm waters and yet to the right of Elizabeth is the Spanish Amerada battling against the choppy waters and being recked against and into the rocks. This is a powerful statement she making, she doesn't often engage in war but when she does, she is a force to be reckoned with for the sake of her country.

Elizabeth is also showing not only her wealth but also how well England is doing by the fine refinishing of her clothes. The amount of pearls scattered on her dress and hair are over the top and could be looking at boosting, however I don't feel like she's boosting as these photos were used to show others of how well a certain someone was doing. She's very cleverly has her hand posed over the globe but not only on english turf but also south america, again this could be a indication to her plans on expenditure.

Elizabeth wanted to be seen as godlessly and I really feel here she demonstrates it very well, when i think of Elizabeth I, I think of a powerful woman ready to take on the world.............and to a certain extent she did.