Art Funded by you

The Heneage ('Armada') Jewel

Unknown artist, c. 1550–1575

© V&A Picture Library

The front of this jewel is adorned with a profile portrait in gold of Queen Elizabeth I. The cover depicts the Ark of the English church on stormy waters which bears the motto 'Calm amidst the raging seas'. The inside of the cover bears a red rose and the complimentary inscription, 'Alas, that virtue inviolate, with so great honour decked, hath not eternal length of day'. This jewel was reputedly a gift from the Queen to Sir Thomas Heneage for his service during the time of the Armada and was among the greatest treasures in the Pierpont Morgan collection in New York. At auction, the Art Fund dramatically stepped in to reclaim it for Britain, paying the entire purchase price. When Viscount Wakefield learned of this he reimbursed the full amount and presented it to the Victoria and Albert Museum through the fund.

More information

Title of artwork, date

The Heneage ('Armada') Jewel, c. 1550–1575

Date supported

1935

Medium and material

Gold enamel, rock crystal, diamond & ruby

Dimensions

7.1 x 5.2 x 1.1 cm

Gifted by

Lord Wakefield

Content note: This object record is part of our archive and has not been updated since it was first published. It may contain inaccurate information or outdated language. Please get in touch if you think this record should be amended.

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