King Edward
1 portrait by Manwine
© National Portrait Gallery, London
King Edward
by Manwine, from a die attributed to Theodoric
silver penny, 1065
3/4 in. (19 mm) diameter
Purchased, 1958
Primary Collection
NPG 4048
Sitterback to top
- King Edward (circa 1003-1066), Known as 'The Confessor', reigned 1043-66. Sitter in 8 portraits.
Artistsback to top
This portraitback to top
In the Anglo-Saxon era, portraits on coins were intended as emblems of kingship rather than individual likenesses. However, they demonstrate how leaders could reinforce their claim to rule by disseminating their own image on objects that were used and exchanged on a daily basis. The ruler’s portrait also provided confidence in the legitimacy of the coinage.
Linked publicationsback to top
- Saywell, David; Simon, Jacob, Complete Illustrated Catalogue, 2004, p. 194
- Strong, Roy, Tudor and Jacobean Portraits, 1969, p. 81
- Williamson, David, Kings and Queens, 2010, p. 25
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