Painting history

the long version

This book presents "The Execution of Lady Jane Grey" with other major history paintings and preparatory sketches that made Delaroche's reputation during his lifetime. The authors also discuss varied visual and cross-cultural influences such as popular prints and theatre on his particular approach to depicting English history. Other inspirations are outlined, including the recent discovery that the probable model for Lady Jane Grey was a well-known Parisian actress, thus shedding further light on Delaroche's interest in theatre. This study is complemented by an essay by John Guy, the distinguished Tudor historian, who outlines the short life of Lady Jane Grey, Queen of England for nine days, and the development of her enduring mythical status as an innocent martyr.