Aelfredus Magnus Rex Angl

Welcome, everyone! Before you is Aelfredus Magnus Rex Angl, a remarkable print created in 1732 by the esteemed artist George Vertue. This piece is part of the impressive collection held at the National Library of Wales. nn The print presents a bust-length portrait of Alfred the Great, King of England, set within an elegant oval frame. Alfred is depicted wearing a crown and regal robes, his beard full, and his expression serious and thoughtful. The background is dark, creating a striking contrast that draws your eye to the king's figure. The ornate frame itself is a work of art, adding to the overall sense of grandeur. nn Below the portrait, a richly detailed table draped with cloth holds several books, a rolled-up document, and another crown. This table sits on a raised platform, overlooking a meticulously rendered landscape. You can see a military encampment with numerous tents, suggesting Alfred's military strength, and a body of water with ships in the distance. A sculpted head, possibly representing a classical figure, rests on a pedestal to the left of the table, and a flag bearing a raven is partially visible to the left of the portrait. nn The print's monochromatic palette, using various shades of black and gray, is characteristic of etching or engraving techniques. The masterful use of light and shadow creates a sense of depth and volume, particularly noticeable in the rendering of Alfred's face and the folds of the fabric. The symbols are carefully chosen: the crowns represent royalty and power; the books symbolize knowledge and learning; the military encampment speaks to Alfred's military prowess; and the classical head may allude to classical ideals or ancestry. The overall effect is a powerful image conveying regal authority, military strength, and intellectual achievement—a fitting tribute to the historical image of Alfred the Great.