*These two portraits were grouped together for analysis because the social context is the same, I concentrated on the meanings of the pendants used.

Conclusions

During the time in which these portraits were painted, Queen Elizabeth I was in her early forties and about halfway through her reign. As she aged, the public became wary of her ability to pass down her lineage to the next successor because her prospects of marriage remained low. It is also important to note that during 1575 there were Sumptuary Laws in place, which prevented the outward display of excessive wealth through dress, implying that dress was playing a major role in social communication. The phoenix serves as symbols of rebirth and chastity to instill a sense of confidence in her people that she can ensure the future of England without providing children. The pelican pendant contributes to this narrative, as pelicans were believed to have taken their own blood from their breasts to feed their young. This communicates that Elizabeth would go to extreme lengths to protect her legacy and kingdom even though she will not bare children. To eliminate any doubt of her virginity, she continues to dress herself in symbols of virginity. The cherries in her hair in the 'Pelican' Portrait signify that her purity remains in tact. Moreover, the pearls she displays have biblical connotations and the placement of a singular pearl on her forehead may be referencing the sign of the cross that begins with signing "The Father" on the forehead. The key element in analyzing this portrait lies in her age during a time in which her reign was threated by political conflict. She sought out dress as a means to represent The House of Tudor and her ability to uphold her father's legacy.