Lot 80: The Countess of Lucan (Lady Margaret Bingham) (British, d.1814)

Philip II (1527-98), King of Spain (1556-98), wearing bejewelled black doublet, ruff, Order of the Golden Fleece and hat
inscribed on reverse Philip 2d of Spain/ from Sr Ant Mor/ at Althorp/ Copyd by me/ ML, gilt-metal mount
Oval, 63mm. (2 1/2ins.) high

Philip II of Spain played a major role in English history. He had been married to Mary I and was a staunch Catholic. It was the quarrel between Phillip of Spain and Queen Elizabeth I that led to the Spanish Armada being sent to England. Philip of Spain was a very powerful emperor, his lands spreading not only throughout Spain but also throughout much of Europe: his inheritance being much of Holland, Austria and other parts of the 'Low Countries'.