Monument of Mary, Queen of Scots (from "The History of England") by John George Landseer

Monument of Mary, Queen of Scots (from "The History of England") 1795

drawing, print

pencil drawn

drawing

amateur sketch

light pencil work

shading to add clarity

print

pencil sketch

portrait reference

cupid

pencil drawing

england

limited contrast and shading

men

pencil work

remaining negative space

This engraving by John George Landseer, created in 1795, is a poignant tribute to Mary, Queen of Scots. The composition depicts a sorrowful figure leaning against a monument bearing Mary's portrait, while a cherub sits at her feet. The inscription "MARIE" and surrounding foliage add to the somber and melancholic tone of the piece, reflecting the tragic life and execution of the Scottish Queen. Landseer's work, part of a larger series illustrating English history, captures the enduring fascination with Mary, Queen of Scots, a figure forever embedded in popular imagination.