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Richard III
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Richard III
Richard III - pretending he is too holy to want to become king.
1862
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Media ID 14371648
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1862 Appearance Bishop Drama False Gilbert Mitre Piety Pious Pretence Pretending Scheming Shakespeare 1860s
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In this 1862 illustration, Sir John Gilbert masterfully portrays Richard III, the infamous English king, in a moment of dissembling piety. Dressed in the regalia of a bishop, with a mitre resting atop his head and a large, ornate book in hand, Richard III presents an air of false holiness and deep spiritual devotion. However, beneath this pious facade lies a cunning and ruthless monarch, known for his scheming and deceitful nature. The Victorian era, with its fascination for Shakespearean drama and theatrical productions, provided the perfect backdrop for the creation of such an image. Richard III, one of the Bard's most popular and enduring plays, had been a staple of the English stage since its initial performance in 1597. The 1860s saw a resurgence of interest in the play, with numerous productions gracing the stages of London's prestigious theatres. Gilbert's illustration, created for an 1862 publication, captures the essence of Richard III's complex character. The king's piercing gaze, intense expression, and the subtle hint of a sly smile all serve to remind us that beneath the pious exterior lies a scheming and ambitious ruler, determined to secure his place on the throne at any cost. This evocative image, a testament to the enduring power of Shakespeare's works and the artistic prowess of Sir John Gilbert, continues to captivate and intrigue viewers more than a century and a half after its creation.
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