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Alfred the Saxon King, Disguised as a Minstrel, in the Tent of Guthrum the Dane, c. 1852 (oil on canvas)
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Alfred the Saxon King, Disguised as a Minstrel, in the Tent of Guthrum the Dane, c. 1852 (oil on canvas)
TW426904 Alfred the Saxon King, Disguised as a Minstrel, in the Tent of Guthrum the Dane, c.1852 (oil on canvas) by Maclise, Daniel (Croquis, Alfred) (1806-70); 122.2x219.4 cm; Laing Art Gallery, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK; (add.info.: The northern part of Britain was conquered by Scandinavian forces in the 9th century; This picture shows a dramatic, although imaginary, event from that period; King Alfred of Wessex is shown disguised as a wandering harp player to spy on Guthrum, the Danish leader; ); Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums
Media ID 25143908
© Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums / Bridgeman Images
British History Disguise Lavish Resting Spying Tent Vikings
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EDITORS COMMENTS
The captivating oil painting, "Alfred the Saxon King, Disguised as a Minstrel, in the Tent of Guthrum the Dane" transports viewers back to a tumultuous period in British history. Created by Daniel Maclise in 1852, this masterpiece measures an impressive 122.2x219.4 cm and is housed at the Laing Art Gallery in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK. Imaginary yet evocative, the artwork depicts a dramatic scene from the 9th century when Scandinavian forces conquered northern Britain. In this particular moment captured on canvas, King Alfred of Wessex assumes the guise of a wandering harp player to infiltrate Guthrum's tent and gather crucial intelligence for his kingdom. Every detail within this lavish composition tells a story: delicate flowers adorning the tent's interior hint at moments of respite amidst chaos; soldiers rest wearily after their battles; Vikings loom ominously nearby; and Alfred stands tall despite his disguise as he cunningly spies on his Danish adversary. Maclise's skillful brushwork brings life to each character and element within this historical tableau. The painting serves not only as an artistic triumph but also as a window into early 19th-century perceptions of medieval times. "Alfred the Saxon King" invites us to reflect upon themes such as power dynamics, deception, and resilience that transcend time. It reminds us that even during periods of conflict and uncertainty, individuals can rise above adversity through strategic thinking and resourcefulness – qualities embodied by King Alfred himself. As we gaze upon this mesmerizing piece from our vantage point in modernity, let us appreciate both its aesthetic beauty and its ability to transport us into another era filled with intrigue and bravery.
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