Analysis

In an enlightening video, Dr. Barker delves into the methods her team employed in examining Edward's historical tomb. With a blend of passion and scholarly zeal, she explains that they did not rely on a single method alone. Instead, they combined art historical techniques, viewing the tomb with utmost precision using mirrors and physically interacting by carefully probing it.

Simultaneously, they utilized modern scientific approaches, particularly XRF analysis, to obtain deeper insights into the materials and construction of the tomb. This multidisciplinary approach provided them with a holistic perspective on the impressive monument.

Portable X-ray Fluorescence

Portable X-ray fluorescence (XRF) devices are used to analyze the elemental composition of a substance without the need for invasive procedures.

For a team looking to study a 600-year-old bust, XRF was an indispensable tool. However, it was not their sole method for examining the medieval sculpture.

Video Probe

In their ongoing examination of the imposing tomb, Dr. Barker's team utilized special technology, a camera known as the video probe. This sophisticated instrument allowed them to peer inside the bust by inserting it through minute existing openings in the sculpture.

This in-depth look into the bust's interior revealed construction and assembly aspects that had remained hidden until then. Surprisingly, they found that their discoveries did not entirely align with the expectations based on external observations and historical records. These unexpected results significantly enriched their understanding of the artwork.

"A Long Overdue Opportunity"

Dr. Barker emphasized in her statement the previous obstacles in researching the Black Prince's tomb. She pointed out that the lack of substantive documents and records left many questions about the creation, timeline, and financing of the impressive tomb unanswered.

This knowledge gap had always posed a significant challenge for historians and researchers. However, as Dr. Barker highlighted, the recent investigations finally offered a long-overdue opportunity to deeply analyze this historical artwork and view it in a new light.

Raising Doubts

"By employing the latest scientific technologies and through meticulous examination of the bust, we were able to learn much more about its crafting process, assembly, and finishing," Dr. Barker continued.

Historians previously assumed that the tomb was erected shortly after Edward's death. However, the team's analyses soon raised doubts about this long-standing theory.

A New Date

As it turned out, Edward's bust was composed of the same alloys used in constructing a similar monument for his father in 1386.

Experts now believe that it was cast and erected a decade after the Black Prince's death. But who had ensured the fulfillment of his wishes after such a long time?

Richard II

After thorough investigations, Dr. Barker and her research group discovered that the primary agent behind executing Edward's final wishes was his own son. This young monarch, later known as Richard II in the history books, faced numerous challenges during those days.

At that time, a new conflict with France seemed to be looming on the horizon, which had political and economic ramifications for the kingdom. The resulting financial burdens and general insecurity led to a significant decline in Richard II's popularity and reputation among his people.

Propaganda

In her detailed statement, Dr. Barker exposed the possible motives and intentions of Richard II. She speculated that, amid a time of political uncertainty and change, Richard II sought to make a strong statement by producing impressive metal busts of his royal ancestors, particularly his father and grandfather.

These busts, which stood out in quality and craftsmanship, were intended to symbolize the immutability and permanence of the royal crown. Richard II later commissioned similarly magnificent busts for himself and his beloved wife, Queen Anne of Bohemia, underscoring his desire to emphasize the royal heritage and the monarchy's significance.

The Armorer's Work

Interestingly, researchers found that most likely, a genuine armorer was involved in creating the bust, explaining the impressive level of detail.

In addition to ensuring the accuracy of the metal sculpture, he would have also ensured that the various parts were seamlessly assembled.

Edward's Real Armor

The creators of the bust had little artistic freedom. Since its construction in the 14th century, the tomb has stood in the shadow of Edward's real armor, which had been on display in Canterbury Cathedral for centuries.

Legend has it that his sword was once kept here as well until it was stolen by Oliver Cromwell during the English Civil War.

Full Fidelity

Dr. Barker expressed with palpable emotion the faithful representation of Edward's armor on the tomb. She stressed that this depiction does not just show a generic suit of armor but is actually an exact replica of Edward's own armor. This artwork impressively mirrors every nuance of the original armor, including small yet significant details like the precise placement of the rivets.

It's as if the armor, now empty above the tomb, was brought to life on the monument itself. The dedication and care with which this tomb was created showcase the high regard Edward held in history.

Questions

While the mystery of who carried out Edward's wishes may have been solved, one question remains: Who actually built the impressive tomb? According to Pegues, we may never know.

However, thanks to this recent analysis, we gained a unique insight into the timeless talent of the builders and the sculpture they left behind.

"A Completely Unique and Innovative Figure"

"Although the names of the artists have been lost to history, through a close examination of the sculpture's manufacturing process, we have reconstructed the artists' artistic processes, background, training, and the order in which the many parts of the sculpture were assembled," Pegues explained.

"This figure is absolutely unique and innovative, showing, contrary to common belief, just how technologically advanced the medieval era actually was."

"We See Different Things"

In the future, Pegues hopes that the same methods used to analyze Edward's tomb could lead to further insights.

She stated, "Portable technologies and interdisciplinary technical studies like these allow scientists and art historians to jointly find answers to questions we may not be able to answer alone. We see different things."