Historic Antique Portrait of Sir Walter Raleigh A Timeless English Masterpiece
Step into the world of Elizabethan elegance with this stunning antique old master English oil painting – a regal portrait of Sir Walter Raleigh, crafted in the celebrated style of Hans Holbein the Younger. Whether you're a collector of fine art, a lover of history, or someone seeking a unique statement piece, this rare and beautifully preserved painting is more than a work of art—it's a portal into the past.
🧭 Who Was Sir Walter Raleigh?
Sir Walter Raleigh (1552–1618) was one of the most fascinating figures of the Tudor era. A true Renaissance man, Raleigh was an explorer, writer, courtier, and soldier. He played a key role in the colonization of the Americas, introduced tobacco to England, and was a favorite of Queen Elizabeth I—until his eventual downfall under King James I.
This portrait captures Raleigh in his prime, adorned in a finely detailed red doublet with gold accents and a ruffled collar, topped with a distinctive black hat and feather. His expression is calm, confident, and contemplative—a reflection of his adventurous spirit and intellectual depth.
🎨 Painted in the Style of Hans Holbein
Hans Holbein the Younger was one of the most influential portrait artists of the 16th century, best known for his lifelike depictions of the Tudor court. This piece is attributed to a follower of Holbein, capturing that same level of detail, precision, and psychological presence.
Every stroke pays homage to Holbein's legacy—rich textures, subtle light play, and timeless elegance. The background's deep, muted tone makes the subject appear almost three-dimensional, emphasizing the sitter's nobility and presence.
🖼️ Key Features of This Antique Painting
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Subject: Sir Walter Raleigh, Elizabethan Explorer and Courtier
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Style: After Hans Holbein the Younger
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Medium: Oil on panel
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Frame: Ornate giltwood frame, period style
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Condition: Excellent for its age, with minor wear consistent with antique artworks
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Provenance: Private southern shire collection, labels verso, high end southern shire auction, Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD & museum exhibited.
💎 Why This Portrait Belongs in Your Collection
Whether you're a seasoned art collector or new to historical artwork, this painting offers:
✅ Historical Importance – Raleigh was a key figure in British exploration and colonial history.
✅ Artistic Legacy – Created in the style of one of the great portraitists of European history.
✅ Decorative Impact – A show-stopping addition to studies, libraries, hallways, or formal living spaces.
✅ Investment Potential – Genuine antique art tied to famous historical figures retains and increases in value over time.
📦 Shipping & Authenticity
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Safe Worldwide Shipping – Expertly packaged and insured.
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Authenticity Guaranteed – Available upon request.
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Ready to Hang – Display as soon as it arrives, no framing needed.
✨ Own a Piece of English History
This is more than just a painting—it's a piece of Tudor legacy, a reminder of an age of discovery, courtly intrigue, and cultural flourishing. Perfect for art lovers, historians, interior designers, and collectors alike, this portrait of Sir Walter Raleigh is a rare treasure waiting to be admired.
Don’t miss the opportunity to make history your own.
→ [Buy Now] and elevate your space with timeless grandeur.
Condition report. Offered in fine used condition. The front painting surface is in good overall order, having foxing staining & various craquelure along with some minor paint touch ups in areas commensurate with usage & old age. The frame has general signs of wear, scuffs, scratches, some losses in places commensurate with usage & age.
Dimensions in centimetres of the frame
High (29.5 cm)
Width (24.5 cm)
Length depth thickness of frame (3.2 cm)