The marriage of King Harold II
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
The marriage of King Harold II
The marriage of Saxon King Harold II with Aldyth (Ealdgyth), widow of Gruffudd ap Llywelyn and sister to Edwin and Morcar. Date: 1066
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14287832
© Mary Evans Picture Library/Tom Gillmor
1066 Bishop Ceremony Edwin Font Godwinson Harold Kneeling Llywelyn Maids Ring Saxon Sister Widow
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this evocative image from the annals of medieval British history, King Harold II of England (r. 1066) is depicted in the act of marrying Ealdgyth, the widow of Gruffudd ap Llywelyn and the sister of Edwin and Morcar. The scene unfolds in a grand, ornate setting, with the couple standing before a magnificent stone font, surrounded by a bevy of attendant maids. The king, dressed in his regal robes and crowned, bows his head in reverence as the bishop officiates the ceremony. The marriage of Harold II and Ealdgyth, which took place in the tumultuous year of 1066, was a significant political move. Harold, who had ascended to the throne following the death of King Edward the Confessor, sought to strengthen his position amidst the chaos of the Norman Conquest. Ealdgyth, as the sister of two powerful earls, brought valuable alliances to the new king. The image captures the solemnity and grandeur of the occasion, with the king and his bride exchanging rings in the presence of their God. The intricate details of the font, the richly decorated robes of the attendees, and the somber expressions on their faces all serve to transport the viewer back to a time of ritual, tradition, and momentous change in the history of Britain. This print, a testament to the rich artistic and historical heritage of the past, invites us to reflect on the complex web of alliances, power struggles, and personal relationships that shaped the course of history in 11th century Europe. The marriage of Harold II and Ealdgyth stands as a poignant reminder of the human stories that lie beneath the grand narratives of history.
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
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.
