Isabella, Queen of Edward II. on her voyage to England, with Sir John of Hainault.
PLATE I.
QUEEN ISABELLA ON HER VOYAGE TO ENGLAND.
Before commencing the History of Edward III., with which Froissart commences his Chronicles, he devotes a few short chapters to the latter events of the previous reign. In Chapters VIII. and IX. he relates the arrival of Isabella, Queen of Edward II., in Hainault, and the determination of Sir John of Hainault, brother to the Earl, to accompany her to England with an armed force, and restore her and her son to their rank and influence, usurped by the Spencers, the favourites of the weak monarch. The Illumination,[1] which is most beautifully executed, represents the Queen on her voyage; Sir John of Hainault is conversing with her; and she is accompanied by several ladies of her suite. Many interesting details of costume are carefully and accurately executed, and the whole miniature forms a most pleasing composition.
Execution of Sir Hugh Spencer.