Gloriana

20" x 20"/51 x 51cm

Oil on panel

2020

SOLD

"O, when she's angry, she is keen and shrewd.
She was a vixen when she went to school,
And though she be but little, she is fierce."

William Shakespeare

I have always felt a fascination with Queen Elizabeth 1. She was known as Gloriana and achieved the incredible feat of ruling England, despite the many obstacles she faced. In a time when women were considered the property of men she managed, through guile and diplomacy to avoid marriage and guide her country to peace and prosperity. My little Gloriana is surrounded by her animal courtiers. The nuthatch represents the courage of one in the face of masses and brings, as a reward, a coin of gold. The chipmunk represents prosperity and protection. Gloriana’s sceptre is a blueberry branch, symbolizing inner guidance and intuition. If we listen to our inner voice, as did Elizabeth, then we will find a way to peace and prosperity.