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)