This seal shows an image of Elizabeth I that is not as well
known as her more familiar painted portraits. She is shown on horseback
riding across a field of flowering plants. The queen is depicted
as a strong, feminine figure, not in military dress.
The inscription around the edge reads: 'Elizabetha dei gracia Anglie
Francie et Hibernie Regina Fidei Defensor' ('Elizabeth by the Grace
of God Queen of England, France and Ireland, Defender of the Faith').
The seal was engraved by the famous miniaturist Nicholas Hilliard
and was used during the second half of Elizabeth's reign.
SC 13/N3 (1586-1603)
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