A Modern Elizabeth

Model: unknown, Photographer: unknown 
http://theopaldreamcave.tumblr.com/post/61066700701

This photograph reminds me of a contemporary Queen Elizabeth I for a number of reasons. First of all, the most obvious would be the light skin and orange hair, elements the 'Virgin Queen' possessed. However, in addition to this the style and materials of the dress also remind me of the monarch. The neckline of the dress bares an uncanny resemblance to the collar the Queen wore around her neck, and the gold embroider pattern, filled with sequins and jewels represents wealth and status, an element Elizabeth often included in her gowns and outfits.

Artist: Nicholas Hilliard Circa, Sitter: Queen Elizabeth I

Finally the stature of the model appears stiff but elegant, words that could be used to describe Queen Elizabeth I. Due to the  enormously tight dresses and high neck-line the Queen could barely move in her clothes making her appear stiff, however looking at portraits and watching various film recreations about the Queen there is an unmissable elegance that you receive from her beauty and presence, reminded to me by this image.