Arthur Capel, 1st Earl of Essex; Elizabeth, Countess of Essex
Arthur Capel, 1st Earl of Essex (1631-1683), Soldier; son of 1st Baron Capel.
Identify Elizabeth, Countess of Essex (1636-1718), Wife of 1st Earl of Essex.
Identify
The Earl holds a sword, the symbol of his military prowess, while the glass globe in the Countess's lap is probably intended to symbolise the fragility of human affairs. The classical bust in the background perhaps represents a Stoic philosopher, and underlines the portrait's moral tone.
c. 1655-1660
Oil on canvas
1274.0 x 1712.0mm
NPG 5461
Image and text © National Portrait Gallery, 2022
Where you'll find this
National Portrait Gallery
Permanent collection