Original artwork description:

Watercolours on paper. ' The meeting of Queens '.
This is a painting I really enjoyed and have had this image in my head for a time now. I have always been curious about the meeting of The pirate Queen and the Virgin Queen in 1593. There has been many stories that have now become legend. The one I love and would like to believe, however highly unlikely is that of Grace O' Malley marching into the courtroom, refusing to bow as she believed herself Elizabeths equal. The bold Grace warns The Queen to keep her soldiers out of the West of Ireland or to suffer the consequences. She would have complete freedom to rule over her independent kingdom in Ireland. Other speculations in history may hint at an attraction to Grace for her courage, strength and charisma. Both woman very similar in this way may have led to a mutual understanding and the release of her son. The most plausible possibility was O'Malley may have been a spy for Queen Elizabeths spymaster, Walsingham, playing devils advocate. Grace was cunning politically too and could very well have being playing both sides. Either way the meeting of these very powerful ladies who commanded the harsh world of men, happened. What was whispered between the two this day is only speculation and fascination between historians, artist and writers. Today I imagine the parley between these women who's legend grows stronger with years.
I dedicate this painting to my Mam for her own strength and wisdom I thought about her a lot whilst painting this.

Materials used:

watercolours

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