King Henry II

39 x 24 cm (15.25 x 9.5 inches)
This antique engraving was created in 1777 in London, England for William Augustus Russel's impressive work about the history of England. His work included famous scenes, portraits of royalty and ships.
It was made by copper plate engraving, has hand painted water colouring and well defined plate marks, is beautifully detailed and is on handmade, chain-linked paper. The engraving is on one side, the other side is blank. The paper has a lovely aged, creamy white patina. The border around the print is a little larger than shown. It is in good condition considering it is over 240 years old.
Henry II (1133-1189) was King of England from 1154 to his death. He was the first king of the House of Plantagenet. Henry was energetic and ruthless. Before he was 40 he controlled England, large parts of Wales, Ireland, France and Scotland. Henry is considered to have laid the basis for the English Common Law.