During the reign of which monarch did the artist Nicholas Hilliard paint?

Nicholas Hilliard was a prominent English painter known for his exquisite miniature portraits, particularly during the late 16th century. His work is most closely associated with the Elizabethan era, particularly the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. Hilliard specialized in capturing the likenesses of the royal court and nobility, often creating detailed and vibrant miniatures that reflected the fashion and ideals of the time. His portraits were not just representations of individuals; they also conveyed the status and personality of his subjects, making them prized possessions in an era that valued personal image and courtly display.

Hilliard's artistic career flourished under Elizabeth I's patronage, as he became the court painter and was commissioned to create images that bolstered the queen's image and highlighted her power and grace. His work helped to establish the conventions of portraiture that would influence artists for generations. As such, it is clear that his most significant contributions and recognitions came during the reign of Elizabeth I.