Description:Walter Devereux (1539-1576), Earl of Essex, Viscount Hereford, Lord Ferrers and Lord Bourchier. The Devereux family lived at Chartley Hall, and it was there that Walter acted as custodian of Mary, Queen of Scots. He was Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire 1569-1576. He was created Earl of Essex in 1572 as a reward for his service to Queen Elizabeth I.
Engraved portrait.