A Life of Heraldry and Art
Sir William Segar was a portrait painter and an officer of arms to the court of Elizabeth I of England, later serving as Garter King of Arms under James I. Trained as a scrivener, he found employment with Sir Thomas Heneage, which led to his admission to the College of Arms in June 1585. Throughout his heraldic career, Segar held several significant positions, including Portcullis Pursuivant, Somerset Herald, and Norroy King of Arms. He also served as deputy Garter to invest Christian IV of Denmark with the Order of the Garter.
Beyond his official duties, Segar was active in multiple mediums. His documented artistic work includes an illumination of Dean Colet in the Statute Book of St. Paul's School and portraits of various court members, such as the Earl of Essex, Leicester, and Sir Francis Drake. He was also the author of The Booke of Honour and Armes, published anonymously in 1590, and an expanded version titled Honour Military and Civil in 1602.
Questions & Answers
Where is William Segar from?
William Segar was born in Kingdom of England.
Can I browse William Segar's works by medium?
William Segar's works can be browsed by medium on the artist's All Medium page.
What other names is William Segar known by?
William Segar appears under the alternate names Sir William Segar, Sir Segar, William, Sir Segar, Segar, William Segar (Sir).
Is there a complete list of William Segar's artworks?
Every work by William Segar on this website can be browsed from the artist's All Artworks page.
