Queen Elizabeth I

Queen Elizabeth I (30" x 22") By Eric Buechel

Elizabeth I (7 September 1533 – 24 March 1603) served as the Queen of England and Ireland from 17 November 1558 until her passing in 1603 at the venerable age of 69. Her reign, which lasted for an impressive 44 years, marks a pivotal chapter in British history as she was the final and longest-serving monarch of the Tudor dynasty. Elizabeth's remarkable tenure not only shaped the political landscape of England but also had profound impacts on the cultural and social fabric of the nation. This era, often referred to as the Elizabethan era, is celebrated for its flourishing arts, exploration, and the establishment of Protestantism, which would define the religious identity of England for centuries to come.

During her rule, Elizabeth I navigated a complex web of political intrigue, religious conflict, and international diplomacy. She managed to maintain relative stability in a time when many European nations were embroiled in religious wars. Her ability to deftly balance the interests of Catholics and Protestants, while asserting her authority, showcased her political acumen and adaptability. The defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588, a monumental event during her reign, solidified her reputation as a formidable leader and a symbol of national pride, further enhancing her legacy.

Most images we associate with her show the Queen with a white paste on her face, a cosmetic choice that has often been criticized for giving her an unflattering appearance. This makeup, known as Venetian ceruse, was a popular beauty trend of the time, albeit one that came with significant health risks due to its toxic lead content. However, there exists a less familiar painting of her: a rare and captivating portrait of a young Elizabeth before she ascended to the throne, credited to the artist William Scrots. This portrait, created around 1546 for her father, King Henry VIII, captures the youthful beauty and potential of Elizabeth, showcasing her as a vibrant and intelligent young woman. The painting is notable not only for its artistic merit but also for its historical significance, as it provides a glimpse into Elizabeth's early life and the formative years that would shape her into one of history's most iconic monarchs.

In this portrait, Elizabeth is depicted with striking features and an expression that hints at her future strength and determination. The careful attention to detail in her attire reflects the fashion of the Tudor court, rich in color and texture, symbolizing her royal lineage. This image stands in stark contrast to the later representations of her, which often emphasize her status as a powerful ruler, sometimes at the expense of her individuality and youth. The juxtaposition of these portraits highlights the evolution of Elizabeth not only as a person but also as a monarch who would leave an indelible mark on the history of England.

I selected this portrait of Elizabeth as the basis for my painting of her. By softening her features, I've made the Queen appear more approachable and, to be honest, more feminine. I've opted to use my airbrush once again, as it is ideal for softening shapes and effectively rendering facial forms. I wanted the Queen to look beautiful as she may have wanted, reflecting not only her grace and elegance but also the ideals of beauty that were celebrated during her reign. It was essential for her to embody the virtues of royalty, which included poise, sophistication, and an aura of regality that would inspire admiration and loyalty among her subjects. The way she presented herself, from her attire to her demeanor, played a significant role in shaping the public's perception of her as a monarch.

If I were a court artist of that time, immersed in the vibrant world of the royal court, I surely would have wanted that to be so. My brush would strive to capture not just her physical beauty but also the essence of her character, the strength behind her gentle smile, and the wisdom reflected in her eyes. The colors I would choose would be rich and vivid, symbolizing the wealth and power of the crown, while the fabrics depicted in my artwork would flow gracefully, emphasizing her stature and the elegance of her movements.

Moreover, I would pay close attention to the details of her attire, ensuring that each piece of jewelry sparkled with the brilliance befitting a queen, and that her gown was adorned with intricate patterns that told stories of her lineage and the history of her kingdom. The background of the portrait would be equally significant, perhaps incorporating elements of the royal palace or symbols of her reign, to contextualize her beauty within the grandeur of her position.

In my role as a court artist, it would be my duty to not only flatter her appearance but also to immortalize her legacy through my art. The portrait would serve as a visual narrative, capturing a moment in time that future generations could admire and study. Each stroke of the brush would be deliberate, aiming to evoke a sense of awe and respect for the Queen, ensuring that her beauty, as she envisioned it, would be preserved for eternity.

So with that said, I am pleased to share that I have successfully accomplished my artistic goal, and today my painting is proudly displayed at the Eye Center of Tennessee, located in Crossville. This achievement marks a significant milestone in my artistic journey, as it represents not only my dedication to my craft but also my desire to share my vision with a broader audience.

The painting itself is framed using solid red oak, a material that holds personal significance for me. The oak was thoughtfully harvested from my property, situated just outside my studio. This connection to my land adds a layer of meaning to the piece, as it embodies the natural beauty that surrounds my creative space. Each frame is meticulously handcrafted in my studio workshop, allowing me to infuse my personal touch into every aspect of the presentation. The craftsmanship involved in creating the frames reflects my commitment to quality and artistry, ensuring that the final presentation complements the painting beautifully.

To enhance the overall aesthetic of the artwork, I chose to apply a dark stain to the red oak frame. This decision was intentional, as the rich, deep tones of the stain serve to emphasize the lighter colors within the painting itself. The contrast between the dark frame and the vibrant hues of the artwork not only draws the viewer's eye but also adds a sense of depth and weight to the piece. This interplay of colors creates a harmonious balance, allowing the painting to stand out while remaining grounded by the sturdy frame that surrounds it.

The combination of my painting and its handcrafted frame is more than just a visual experience; it is a testament to the dedication and passion that I pour into my work. I invite all who visit the Eye Center of Tennessee to take a moment to appreciate not only the artwork but also the story behind its creation, from the selection of materials to the final touches that bring it to life. This exhibition represents a culmination of my efforts, and I am thrilled to share it with the community. EB

Ode to Queen Elizabeth I

By Eric Buechel

In valleys deep where shadows lie,

A nation whispers, a hopeful sigh,

For within the embrace of these ancient hills,

Stories of resilience and courage fulfill.

Each echo carries tales of yore,

Of ancestors who fought, who dreamed, and who swore,

To rise against the tides of despair and strife,

To carve out a future, to breathe in new life.

Through trials faced, through storms endured,

Their hearts beat strong, their spirits assured,

With every setback, their resolve only grew,

In the face of adversity, they found strength anew.

From the whispers of the past, they draw their might,

A tapestry woven with threads of light.

In the darkest hours, hope flickers bright,

A beacon guiding them through the night.

Each challenge met with unwavering grace,

In the face of hardship, they find their place.

So in these valleys, where shadows may creep,

A nation stands tall, its promises deep.

For united they rise, hand in hand, side by side,

With dreams that soar high, like eagles they glide.

In the heart of the valley, a fire ignites,

Fueling the passion that never subsides.

As they look to the horizon, their vision is clear,

A future of hope, a future they hold dear.

And so, in the valleys where shadows lie still,

A nation whispers, its dreams to fulfill.

Eric Buechel

P.O. Box 277

Pleasant Hill, Tennessee 38578

931-881-7806

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