Show Navigation

Artists

William Bell Scott

The Kings Quair IV

Period:
19th Century
Description:

At Alice Boyd's request, William Bell Scott did a series of murals for the spiral staircase at Penkill Castle. This is a sketch for the first of the 7 paintings.

 

The subject of the series is the poem "The King's Quair" written by King James I in 1420 whilst in captivity at Windsor Castle. The poem tells the story of how the King, during his incarceration at Windsor, saw and fell in love with Lady Jane, whom he later married.

 

Each painting depicts a different scene from the story. In this one Queen Venus is seen enthroned in the garden of the Court of Love where Prince James begs her assistance. Queen Venus sends him to the Goddess Minerva.

Materials/Media:
Watercolour
Dimensions:
350 x 465mm
Source:
The Dick Institute
Accession number:
KIMMG:PKU24
Digital Number:
EAFA001d
Copyright:
East Ayrshire Council