This original linocut book illustration features  the scene in the Alliterative Morte Arthure (King Arthur's Death) when King Arthur finds the body of Sir Gawain after his battle with Mordred.
 
The illustration is one of many which appears in Michael Smith's translation of the Alliterative Morte Arthure (King Arthur's Death) (published in 2021).
 
In the story, Sir Gawain and a troupe of men disembark from Arthur's fleet when the king's army returns to Britain. Gawain's men meet with those of Mordred but they are eventually defeated.
 
When Arthur's army finally lands, the king finds the body of Gawain surrounded by thousands of those who had tried to take him and his men. The king's lament for Sir Gawain is one of the most moving passages in this magnificent medieval poem. 
 
When Michael was preparing the manuscript of the book for publication, a number of prints were produced to illustrate different sections of the book.
 
Michael is offering these originals for sale to collectors. All are signed and dated and carry the mark LCI to reflect the limited special edition status of the print. After these prints are sold, no more will be made available.
 
This print is hand printed on 250 gsm Somerset Velvet Paper on a 19th Century Albion Press in oil-based black ink for longevity; signed and edition by the artist. Printed area: 12" x 12"; paper size approx twice as much again.
 
ONE AVAILABLE - please note there is a slight tear to the paper on this print but it does not affect the main printed area and will be covered by the mount when you frame it. I have reduced the price slightly to account for this.
 
Buy the book!
Michael Smith's translation of King Arthur's Death was published in 2021. To learn more about the book and to buy a signed and specially-dedicated edition, please click here.