The Martyrdom of Archbishop Cranmer

DESCRIPTION: The image depicts an antique historical print titled ‘The Martyrdom of Archbp. Cranmer’, designed by the English painter Robert Smirke (1752–1845). The scene captures the dramatic execution of Thomas Cranmer, the leader of the English Reformation and the Archbishop of Canterbury, who was condemned for heresy and burned at the stake in Oxford on March 21, 1556, under the Catholic regime of Queen Mary I ("Bloody Mary"). Visual Elements depicted by Robert Smirke: The Defiant Gesture: Cranmer is shown kneeling amid the flames, boldly raising his arm. Historically, having previously signed recantations under duress, he famously renounced them at the stake and thrust his right hand into the fire first because it had signed those letters against his heart. The Religious Conflict: On the left, Catholic friars and monks confront Cranmer, offering a crucifix in an attempt to force a final submission. The Executioner and Soldiers: In the foreground, an executioner tends to the firewood, while heavily armed soldiers look on from the background under a stone archway. This specific print version was engraved by W. French and circulated widely during the 19th century as a book illustration detailing British history. STYLE: Engraving COLOUR: Monochrome SIZE (cm): 14 x 22 CREATORS: W French after R Smirke PUBLICATION: The National and Domestic History of England PUBLISHER: London: J Hagger DATE: C19 COMMENTS: Excellent condition with some patina from its antiquity SUBJECT: People PACKAGE: Single one-sided sheet in acid-free mount, flat & unfolded inside hard-backed envelope. Royal Mail Tracked 24 included. Note: Images are provided for illustration purposes only and are intended to show the complete printed product, including any imperfections of age that may be present. Frames or props shown in the images are for display purposes only and are not included with your purchase.