Edward the Martyr 1773

This etching by Italian artist Andrea Casali depicts the death of Edward the Martyr, King of England from 975 to 978. It portrays the moment Edward, a young king, was stabbed to death by the order of his stepmother, Elfrida, at Corfe Castle in 978. The scene is set in a dramatic architectural space, with Edward on horseback, surrounded by a crowd of figures, including Elfrida. The work is a fine example of Casali's skill in capturing the drama and pathos of historical events.