John Bettes the Elder (active 1531-1570) was an English portrait painter during the Tudor period. He is known for his portraiture work during the reigns of Henry VIII, Edward VI, and Elizabeth I. Here are some key points about John Bettes the Elder:1. **Early Career**: John Bettes is believed to have been born around 1531 in Norwich, England. He started his career as a portrait painter during the early 16th century, working primarily in London.2. **Royal Commissions**: Bettes received commissions from the English monarchy, including portraits of members of the royal family. He painted portraits of Henry VIII, as well as Edward VI and Queen Elizabeth I when they were young.3. **Signature Style**: Bettes' style was influenced by the Northern Renaissance and the Italian Renaissance. His portraits are characterized by detailed and finely executed clothing, jewelry, and accessories, as well as distinctive backgrounds.4. **Notable Works**: One of his notable works is the "Portrait of an Unknown Lady" (c. 1550-1555), which is considered one of his finest works. The identity of the lady in the portrait remains a subject of debate among art historians.5. **Family of Artists**: John Bettes the Elder came from a family of artists. His son, John Bettes the Younger, was also a portrait painter and continued his father's legacy.6. **Fading from History**: Despite his contributions to Tudor portraiture, John Bettes the Elder's life and works are not as well-documented as some of his contemporaries. As a result, there is still some mystery surrounding his biography and the full extent of his body of work.7. **Legacy**: John Bettes the Elder's portraits provide valuable insights into the clothing, fashion, and appearance of the Tudor elite during the 16th century. His works are considered important historical documents, capturing the essence of the period.8. **Date of Death**: The exact date of John Bettes the Elder's death is not well-documented, but it is believed to have occurred around 1570. His work and influence on Tudor portraiture continue to be studied and appreciated by art historians and enthusiasts.While the details of John Bettes the Elder's life and career may remain somewhat elusive, his contributions to Tudor portraiture and the visual documentation of the Tudor era are still highly regarded and studied in the context of English Renaissance art.
Measures 25.6 x 21.6.

Good condition. No major rips, tears, etc.