Sir Henry Lee, 1568

Sir Henry Lee (1533–1611) served five English monarchs over the course of his long career. He achieved his greatest renown at the court of Elizabeth I, serving as Master of the Armoury and devising the annual Accession Day tilts on 17 November in her honour. These elaborate celebrations became the most important Elizabethan court festival.

This portrait by Anthonis Mor, one of the most esteemed portraitists working in Europe, was painted in Antwerp while Lee was travelling. The painting is rich in clues and symbols about the sitter’s identity. He wears the queen’s colours of black and white, his sleeves are decorated with armillary spheres (symbols of celestial harmony) and lovers’ knots, which were personal emblems of Elizabeth and probably refer to his role as her champion. The significance of his gesture is unclear but, in addition to the ring tied around his arm in the manner of a chivalric favour, may indicate an offer of love and devotion, either to the queen, a friend or a lover.

National Portrait Gallery, London Given by Harold Lee-Dillon, 17th Viscount Dillon, 1925
© National Portrait Gallery, London