Richard I (Richard the Lionheart), King of England
Medium
Classification
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian Institution
Accession Number
S/NPG.77.43.7
Tags
Art Historical Context
Behold *Richard I (Richard the Lionheart), King of England*, a striking 1618 print by Renold Elstrack (c. 1570–c. 1625), a skilled Dutch-born engraver active in England. This portrait captures the legendary Crusader king (r. 1189–1199) in regal armor, crowned and wielding symbols of martial prowess like a battle-axe, sword, war club, shield, and even a cannon—evoking his fierce reputation as a warrior. Surrounding details, such as a ladder (hinting at sieges), a goat, sun, and coat of arms, enrich the composition, blending heraldry with battlefield imagery. Created over four centuries after R...