Antique Engraving Shakespeare King Henry VI, Part 1, Act Il Scene IV 1795

Description:

William Shakespeare's play Henry VI, Part 1, specifically the "Plucking of the Red and White Roses in the Old Temple Gardens". This event is considered a pivotal moment, marking the symbolic beginning of the Wars of the Roses.

The Scene: The image shows Richard Plantagenet (later 3rd Duke of York) and his followers plucking white roses, symbolizing their allegiance to the House of York, while the Duke of Somerset and his companion choose red roses, representing the House of Lancaster.

Historical Significance: This scene, though possibly fictionalized by Shakespeare, visually represents the growing political divisions among the English nobility that ultimately led to the bloody dynastic conflict known as the Wars of the Roses.

Artistic Representation: This particular engraving is "AFTER J. BOYDELL AND ENGRAVED BY J. OGBORNE SHAKESPEARE," indicating it's a reproduction of an earlier work, likely part of the Boydell Shakespeare Gallery.

Symbolism: The roses serve as powerful visual symbols, allowing the audience to easily identify the allegiances of the characters and highlighting the deep-seated rivalry between the two powerful families.

Size : 65x50 cm