Art Funded by you

The Heneage ('Armada') Jewel

Unknown artist, c. 1550–1575

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 It may contain inaccurate information or outdated language.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.

Get a National Art Pass and explore V&A South Kensington

You'll see more art and your membership will help museums across the UK

National Art Pass offers available at V&A South Kensington

50% off exhibitions

Get a national art pass

National Art Pass offers available at V&A South Kensington

50% off exhibitions

Art Funded by you FAQs

Why is this object record marked 'archive'?

Where can I see this work of art? Is it on display?

What is Art Fund's purpose?

How is Art Fund funded?

What type of funding do you offer?

What does the acquisition grants programme support and who can apply?

How many works of art has Art Fund helped museums to acquire?

I’m a curator/researcher/arts professional and would like to find out more about this work, how do I get in touch?

I’m a journalist and would like to contact Art Fund about this work, how do I get in touch?

I would like to donate a work of art to a museum. What do I need to do?

I'd like to leave a gift to Art Fund in my will. How can I do this?

Contact us

If you have a question about a work of art in our archive, please contact the Programmes team. We’ll be happy to answer your enquiry.

Get in touch