The context of this portrait to signify Queen Elizabeth I’s succession to the throne, along with the responsibility and authority of this position, combined with her martial status make this portrait a focal point for controversy. Her dress is brimming with power symbols to convince the English population of her legitimacy as a female ruler whose mother was executed for treason. The orb, scepter, and cross are signifiers of the divine power she was graced with from God. With these symbols, she seeks to attain power through God and capture loyalty through God’s appointment of her as ruler of England. The use of the scepter has been a long-standing symbol of power, dating back to Ancient Egypt where it was thought that when a God held a scepter they were excising their control over the world. The high neckline is used to symbolize power in wealth, as she can afford to hire servants to perform laborious tasks. It also creates an illusion of power in confidence because Elizabeth is forced to hold her head high, commanding respect. The color black is present to communicate her faithfulness and endurance. Moreover, her overly pale makeup is a last line of defense in convincing the court of her authority, as it covers her marks of age and any imperfections that may provoke rumors and conspiracy. The nature of Queen Elizabeth I's social position as an unmarried women who faced many assassination attempts due to religious and political strife prompted her to capitalize on the church as her main source of power.