John Henry Fuseli
Swiss (active in England), 1741-1825

Queen Margret Crowning York with a Paper Crown, from Shakespeare's Henry VI
pen and brown ink, grey and brown washes, over traces of black chalk, about 1771-1772

Ackland Fund, 60.9.1

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In this episode from the War of the Roses, Margaret has captured her ememy the Duke of York, who believed himself the rightful heir to the British throne. She crowns him with a cruel, mocking gesture, while soldiers shackle the struggling victim. A fool echoes Margaret's indignities, craning over the central figures to place his own cap on York's head.