What does the Ditchley Foundation do?
Ditchley works with people from across the world to help sustain peace, freedom and order.
Who owns Ditchley Park?
The 2nd Earl of Lichfield built the present house, designed by James Gibbs, in 1722. In 1933, the house was bought by an MP, Ronald Tree, whose wife Nancy Lancaster redecorated it in partnership with Sibyl Colefax….
| Ditchley Park | |
|---|---|
| Designated | 27 August 1957 |
| Reference no. | 1251530 |
| Listed Building – Grade II |
When was Ditchley Park built?
1720s
Ditchley Park is a Grade I-listed Palladian Mansion built in the 1720s to James Gibbs’ design. It is richly decorated with the work of William Kent, Henry Flitcroft and well known Swiss-Italian stuccatori. The House is set in 300 acres of Grade II*-listed parkland owned by the Ditchley Foundation.
Is Ditchley Park open to the public?
When not in use for conferences and other activities, the Mansion and grounds are open Monday-Friday to the public for visits, for which a small charge is made. These must be booked in advance, and are more suitable for those with an interest in 18th Century architecture, decorative art and landscapes.
Where is the Ditchley portrait?
NPG 2561; Queen Elizabeth I (‘The Ditchley portrait’) – conservation research – National Portrait Gallery.
What does the Ditchley portrait tell us about Elizabeth?
This famous portrait was probably created for the pageant at Ditchley. Its symbolic theme is forgiveness as Elizabeth stands on the globe, signalling her divinely sanctioned right to rule as she banishes the stormy darkness.
Who commissioned the Ditchley portrait?
Sir Henry Lee
The Ditchley Portrait further propelled his reputation due to the groundbreaking and innovative techniques he employed (James 320). The portrait was commissioned by Sir Henry Lee, who had served as the Queen’s Champion for over thirty years (National Portrait Gallery).
What does the Ditchley portrait symbolize?
What symbols did Elizabeth use?
Her portraits have long since passed the time when they needed to show she was the rightful queen; Elizabeth is the monarch. She is also wearing pearls, a symbol of virginity….The Elizabeth I Rainbow Portrait.
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Ermine Fox | Virginity |
| Sword of State | Justice |
| Sun / Bright skies | Bringer of peace and plenty |
What does the Ditchley portrait tell us about Elizabeth’s reputation?
Where is the Ditchley portrait located?
The National Portrait Gallery in London, where the painting now hangs, believes the painting commemorates the return to favor of Sir Henry Lee (1533-1611), who had angered Elizabeth by taking as his mistress and openly living with one Anne Vavasour.
What is Queen Elizabeth holding in the Ditchley portrait?
In The Ditchley Portrait, Elizabeth wore a wheel farthingale, which became popular in the European courts in the early 1590s (Arnold 199).