Saved, on behalf of the nation, by the nation, for the nation.
The Armada Portrait of queen Elizabeth I (r1558 – 1603) was owned by Sir Francis Drake. The portrait commemorates the most famous conflict of Elizabeth’s reign, the failed invasion of England by the Spanish Armada in 1588.
The portrait was put up for sale by Sir Francis Drake’s descendants and was in danger of being sold abroad. A campaign to save the portrait for the nation began in May 2016. An overwhelming response from the public saw over 8000 donations in just 10 weeks. Schools and colleges across the nation took part in various fundraising events. One school teacher commented, “We study the portrait when we teach Elizabeth I and the Armada, so the girls were very keen to help save it for the nation”. The portrait was acquired by and for the nation in 2017.
The extraordinary level of support from the public makes this one of the most successful campaigns ever for a work of art. The owners wrote: ‘On behalf of the Tyrwhitt-Drake’s, I am truly delighted that this exceptional work of art has been safeguarded for future generations to be admired by all in the National Maritime Museum, a public institution where it can be viewed for generations to come.
It was this amazing story of the portrait which inspired and prompted Stratford – upon – Avon sculptor, Judy Methuen, set to work and create a three-dimensional image of the portrait.
Judy’s sculpture is now completed and has been cast in white resin and bronze resin. The white resin sculpture as you can see has been coloured by Judy in sympathy with the colours of the portrait.
Judy has created a truly amazing likeness to the portrait, capturing the strength and determination of the Queen.
The Busts are available to buy in several sizes from Judy's shop:
