Home > Arts > Artists > F > John Foxe
Woodcut from Foxes Book of Martyrs (woodcut)
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Fine Art Finder
Woodcut from Foxes Book of Martyrs (woodcut)
982360 Woodcut from Foxes Book of Martyrs (woodcut) by English School, (16th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Woodcut from John Foxes Actes and Monuments, depicting the actes and thinges done in the reign of Edward VI. At the top of the page a depiction of how churches were cleared of popish trumpery by burning images, while crosses, chalices, candlesticks, mass books and other discarded ceremonial objects are being transported to banishment in the the ship of the Romish Church by Catholics fleeing into exile. In the lower portion of the woodcut the young king, seated in state before his lords spiritual and temporal, hands the holy book of the word to the divines on his right, as his father had before him. On the other side, in a masterpiece of compression, a reformed church is depicted, furnished for only the two sacraments of baptism and communion. First published in 1563.); Look and Learn / Valerie Jackson Harris Collection
Media ID 23513624
© Look and Learn / Valerie Jackson Harris Collection / Bridgeman Images
Edward Vi Of England Foxes Book Of Martyrs John Foxe King Edward Vi Of England Woodcut
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> F
> John Foxe
> Arts
> Artists
> I
> Irish School Irish School
> Arts
> Artists
> J
> John Jackson
> Arts
> Artists
> Y
> John Young
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Related Images
> Fine Art Finder
> Artists
> English School
> Fine Art Finder
> Temp Classification
> Historic
> Monuments and landmarks
> Monuments and memorials
> People
> Royalty
> Related Images
EDITORS COMMENTS
This woodcut from the Foxes Book of Martyrs, created by an unknown English artist in the 16th century, offers a glimpse into the tumultuous reign of Edward VI. The image portrays a significant moment in history when churches were purged of what was considered "popish trumpery" during the Protestant Reformation. At the top of the woodcut, we witness a scene where Catholic objects such as crosses, chalices, candlesticks, and mass books are being burned or banished to exile on a ship representing the Romish Church. This symbolic act represents Catholics fleeing into exile due to religious persecution. In contrast, at the lower portion of this intricate artwork, we see King Edward VI seated regally before his lords spiritual and temporal. He is depicted passing on "the holy book of word" to divines on his right-hand side. This gesture mirrors that of his father's before him and signifies their commitment to promoting Protestantism. The woodcut also cleverly compresses another powerful message: it showcases a reformed church furnished only for baptism and communion – emphasizing simplicity and rejecting Catholic rituals deemed unnecessary by Protestants. Published first in 1563 within John Foxe's Actes and Monuments (commonly known as Foxe's Book of Martyrs), this print serves as both historical documentation and religious satire. It highlights not only political tensions surrounding religion but also reflects how art can be used as a tool for propaganda during times of great change. This intriguing piece is part of Bridgeman Images' vast collection available through Fine Art Finder.
MADE IN THE UK
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 Basket.
