Lot 76: ROBERT SCOTT LAUDER R.S.A. (1803-1869) THE PENANCE OF JANE SHORE 133cm x 180cm (52.5in x 71in)

ROBERT SCOTT LAUDER R.S.A. (1803-1869)

THE PENANCE OF JANE SHORE

Bears signature and indistinct inscription verso, oil on canvas
133cm x 180cm (52.5in x 71in)

Exhibited:Royal Scottish Academy 1850, no.160
Literature:Art Journal 1850, p.101. The unfortunate mistress of a weak King leans against the cross in an attitude of deep sorrow and humiliation, with an air of womanly shame, which is as beautifully conceived as it is exquisitely rendered. The varied expressions upon the faces of those who gaze upon her degradation, are well shadowed forth; some in pity, some in doubt, some in anger, look upon her; but she, the observed of all observers , with downcast eyes and heavy heart, irresistibly draws all our attention and pity. This is in itself a proof of the great ability Mr Lauder has exercised upon the subject, which absorbs attention entirely on the principal figure.Charles Baille de Laperriere, R.S.A Exhibitors, 1826-1990
Note:Jane Shore , the daughter of a Cheapside mercer, married William Shore, a Lombard goldsmith, but became, in about 1470, the mistress of Edward IV. After the Kings death, Richard III caused the Bishop of London to make her walk in open penance, carrying a taper and dressed only in her kirtle. This was in 1483. She died in 1509 and became a popular figure in legend. Nicholas Rowe wrote a play, Jane Shore and she is mentioned in Act 1, Scene ii of Shakespeares Richard II.