Thanks to the lovely Alianore, I recently discovered the work of UK artist Mark Satchwill. We have all been particularly admiring Mark’s watercolours of Edward II (Eleanor’s youngest son) and Isabella. I also looked through his portfolio of work, and discovered that he had painted many historical figures plus many other gorgeous original images.
Of course, being me, I had to ask Mark if he was going to paint Eleanor! Well, I’d like to think she has some input into this site, and would demand to know in her own queenly way! I was very pleased to learn that Eleanor was indeed on his list to paint.
So, how excited am I? I got an email yesterday letting me know that Eleanor’s painting was finished and up on Mark’s blog! I was in no doubt of his talent, but I was stunned by how beautiful she looks. The lovely wavy long hair, regal face and aristocratic profile – but most important of all – she looks vital and alive, how I like to remember her despite her beautiful crosses.
Why not go over and visit Mark’s blog and say hi? Tell him I sent you. Don’t forget to look at his paintings and prints that are still available to buy via his website. I have to warn you I have bought the original of Eleanor, but you can still buy a print of it!
Eleanor of Castile by Mark Satchwill. Image re-produced with kind permission of the artist.
Which Grand Duchess Would YOU Be?
Hi Eleanor — I like your ‘Eleanor’ painting. It is nice for you to have the original too!
I missed you on Wordless Wednesday, yours were always educational for me.
I also checked on the castles. Would you believe all the castles we’ve seen in the UK (Britain, Ireland, and Scotland) that not one of the minatures have we been to the real thing? Maybe you could take up a collection if no one comes forward to buy Castle Fraser. Or say charge it. It is a rather small limited edition.
Satchwill’s model seems to have been a modern young lady, at least in my mind the earlier ladies looked more like they had a pampered life. Those earlier ones I have seen in paintings looked like they never missed a meal, had very rosey cheeks, and shorter foreheads (:-). Your Eleanor looks a little sad I believe, which is OK.
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Alison, thank you for calling me lovely!! *Blushes*
It’s a gorgeous portrait of Eleanor. Mark’s painting of Edward II is still my favourite, though, so of course I just had to buy a print of it, and now it’s next to my PC where I can stare at it constantly.
Isn’t that neat? He brought her to life in a beautiful way. And wow, you have the original. That’s neat. Have a gr8 weekend, Alison.
Hi Jim, I’ve been having a photo break for a while. I may be about soon – thanks for missing me! It would be nice to buy the model, maybe a collection is possible who knows? I took a look at a few of them, and I don’t think I’d been to many either. It’s funny Eleanor doesn’t look modern to me, but it’s all about perception isn’t it? I think sadness works for her, as she lost so many of her children, and I believe was probably homesick too at times.
You’re welcome Alianore! I’ll let you off for being partial to Edward
At the moment, Eleanor is sitting by me at my computer as well funnily enough.
Hey Rhonda, she is beautiful isn’t she? I think it’s an added bonus having the original.