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Mother Shipton (1488-c1560) English witch and prophetess, 1804. Artist: John Scott
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Mother Shipton (1488-c1560) English witch and prophetess, 1804. Artist: John Scott
Mother Shipton (1488-c1560) English witch and prophetess, 1804. She is depicted with her familiar, a monkey. Ursula Sonthiel Shipton lived in Yorkshire and told fortunes and made predictions concerning the future. Her best-known prophecy concerned Cardinal Wolsey. Wolsey was Archbishop of York, but his involvement with affairs of state in London meant that he never visited the diocese. Mother Shipton predicted that Wolsey would see York but never actually set foot in the city. In 1530 he travelled to York, and glimpsed the city in the distance, but was recalled to London by Henry VIII to face a charge of high treason. He died on the return journey. The first written edition of Mother Shiptons prophecies dates from 1641 however, long after Wolseys death, so it is thought that the prophecy may have been a hoax penned by someone else
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Media ID 14843240
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John Scott Monkey Prophecy Prophetess Scott Tudor Witch Witchcraft Ann Ronan Pictures Ouseley Shipton
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This print showcases the enigmatic figure of Mother Shipton, an English witch and prophetess from the 16th century. Created by artist John Scott in 1804, this portrait depicts Mother Shipton alongside her loyal familiar, a mischievous monkey. Mother Shipton, also known as Ursula Sonthiel Shipton, resided in Yorkshire where she gained fame for her fortune-telling abilities and predictions about the future. One of her most renowned prophecies revolved around Cardinal Wolsey, who served as Archbishop of York during that time. Despite never setting foot in the city due to his involvement with state affairs in London, Mother Shipton foresaw that Wolsey would see York but not visit it. In a twist of fate, Wolsey did travel to York in 1530 and caught sight of the distant city before being summoned back to London by King Henry VIII on charges of high treason. Tragically, he passed away during his return journey. Although the first written edition of Mother Shipton's prophecies emerged long after Wolsey's demise in 1641—raising suspicions about their authenticity—it remains intriguing how her prediction aligned with historical events. John Scott masterfully captures the essence of this mysterious woman through intricate details such as her Tudor-era attire and distinctive hat. This enchanting engraving transports us back to a time when witches were both feared and revered for their supernatural powers—a fascinating glimpse into England's rich folklore heritage.
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