Duchess of Gloucesters penance
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Duchess of Gloucesters penance
Eleanor, Duchess of Gloucester (1400-1452). Having consulted astrologers to divine the future, they predicted that Henry VI would suffer a life-threatening illness, a finding that caused him great unease. She and co-conspirators were arrested. She was forced to do penance, divorce her husband and was condemned to life imprisonment. Date: 19th century
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 20032532
© Mary Evans / Peter & Dawn Cope Collection Mary Evans / Peter & Dawn Cope Collection
Arrested Caused Condemned Consulted Divine Divorce Duchess Eleanor Finding Forced Future Gloucester Having Husband Illness Imprisonment Penance Predicted Suffer Astrologers
EDITORS COMMENTS
This haunting image captures the moment of penance performed by Eleanor, Duchess of Gloucester (1400-1452), following her arrest for consulting astrologers to divine the future of King Henry VI. The prediction of a life-threatening illness for the monarch caused great unease, leading to her and her co-conspirators being accused of treason and sorcery. The Duchess, dressed in a simple penitent robe, is shown kneeling before an altar, her hands clasped in prayer, as she seeks forgiveness for her actions. The somber expression on her face and the seriousness of the scene are palpable, as she faces the consequences of her actions. Eleanor's marriage to Humphrey, Duke of Gloucester, was a politically advantageous one, but it was also one of convenience. The union produced no children, and Eleanor's desire for power and influence may have led her to seek other means to secure her future. The consultation of astrologers was a risky move, one that ultimately led to her downfall. Divorced from her husband and condemned to life imprisonment, Eleanor spent the remaining years of her life in seclusion. The image of her penance serves as a reminder of the high stakes of political intrigue and the consequences of seeking knowledge that was considered beyond the reach of mortals. This poignant photograph, from the Mary Evans Picture Library, offers a glimpse into the complex world of medieval politics and the human cost of seeking answers to the unknown.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
