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Penance of Henry before the shrine of Thomas a Becket
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Penance of Henry before the shrine of Thomas a Becket
King Henry II (1133-1189) doing penance before the shrine of Thomas a Becket. Henry ruled as King of England from 1154 to 1189. He was the first Plantagenet (or Angevin) King. St Thomas Becket (c1118-1170) was Archbishop of Canterbury from 1162 to 1170. He is venerated as a saint and martyr by both the Roman Catholic Church and the Anglican Church. He engaged in a conflict with King Henry II over the rights and privileges of the Church and was assassinated by followers of the king in Canterbury Cathedral. He is also commonly known as Thomas a Becket, although this form may not have been contemporary. From an ancient painting on glass, engraved in Carters Specimens of Ancient Sculpture and Painting
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Media ID 14928962
© The Print Collector / Heritage-Images
Altar Arm Raised Arms Crossed Becket Canterbury Cathedral Cella Fitzempress Henry Ii Henry Ii Curtmantle King Henry Ii King Of England Mausoleum Penance Saint Thomas Shrine St Thomas St Thomas Becket Thomas A Becket Thomas Becket Hand Gesture
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a profound moment in history, capturing the penance of King Henry II before the sacred shrine of Thomas a Becket. In this powerful image, we witness the first Plantagenet King humbling himself before the tomb of the revered Archbishop of Canterbury. Henry II's rule over England from 1154 to 1189 was marked by his tumultuous conflict with Thomas a Becket, who valiantly defended the rights and privileges of the Church against royal interference. Tragically, this clash led to Becket's assassination by followers of Henry within Canterbury Cathedral. The engraving beautifully conveys both solemnity and reverence as Henry kneels before the shrine with crossed arms, gesturing in prayerful reflection. The monochrome palette adds an air of timelessness to this poignant scene from the 12th century. As St. Thomas Becket is venerated as a saint and martyr by both Roman Catholic and Anglican churches, this image holds immense religious significance. It serves as a reminder not only of their historic conflict but also symbolizes repentance and redemption for past wrongs committed by those in power. Through this remarkable print captured on ancient glass painting, we are transported back in time to witness an extraordinary act of contrition that forever shaped English history.
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