A Study on the Symbolism Shown by the Costumes in the Portraits of Elizabeth I

엘리자베스 1세의 초상화에 내재된 복식요소의 상징성 연구

The purpose of this thesis is to make clear the symbolism expressed by the gorgeous costume elements in the portraits of Elizabeth 1. After English paintings in 16th century and the Portraits of Elizabeth I being investigated in view of its characteristics, the symbolism in the costume of the portraits was studied in analysis. The flowers, the pearls and the sieve denoting a pure virgin predominantly appeared, snake for discretion and wisdom, phoenix for eternal youth and renewal, pelican for motherhood, and eyes and ears for almightiness and sound judgement as an utmost power was found. The color was mainly of black or white and sometimes of these two mixtures. The white means a purity and black, eternity and the mixture of them signifies a virtue of purity. This thesis may help people understand the gorgeous costume of Elizabeth 1. not as an external extravagance, but as an internal emblem or signs delivering its specific significance.