The dying Douglas

Geordie Douglas lies dying
as Mary Queen of Scots looks on.
1568

Two tales of a dying Douglas clashed on opposite sides of the art world. One, a detailed engraving, claimed to depict a scene straight from Sir John Froissart's chronicles, showcasing the Earl of Douglas' demise during a brutal conflict in France. The other, a vibrant tapestry, presented a more personal story inspired by Sir Walter Scott's "The Abbot." Here, the dying wasn't a mighty Earl but George Douglas, a loyal servant of Mary Queen of Scots, succumbing after aiding her escape.

The engraving, meticulously crafted by Landseer, transported viewers to a bygone era. The dying Douglas lay on a hilltop, Crookstone Castle a distant witness. A monk offered solace, while Mary, etched with worry, knelt beside him. The knight, his armour gleaming, brought news of their defeat, pointing towards the valley below. Every detail in this stark portrayal whispered of a power struggle and the fleeting glory of warriors.

Across the divide hung the vibrant tapestry. Based on Charles Landseer's painting, it painted a more intimate scene. Mary, overcome with grief, cradled the dying George's head. Here, the setting wasn't a nameless battlefield, but the aftermath of the Battle of Langside, a turning point in Mary's reign. Lush greens and vibrant colors replaced the starkness of the engraving, highlighting the emotional weight of the moment.

Both artworks, born centuries later, aimed to capture a slice of history. Yet, they offered contrasting narratives. One, a grand historical drama, the other, a poignant tale of loyalty. This artistic dissonance served as a reminder of history's elusive nature. The truth, it seemed, resided not just in the details etched on the page or woven in thread, but in the stories whispered across time.

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Comment:

Four examples of the tapestry were hung in the Great Exhibition in the summer of 1851.  One is held in Mary Queens of Scott's House, in Jedburgh.  The  image here is of the tapestry held by the Victoria & Albert Museum, in London.

Landseer is said to have taken his inspiration from Sir Walter Scott's 'The Abbot' in which the hero, Roland Graeme, is a fictional character, but his theft of the keys of Loch Leven Castle, and his role in freeing the Queen, are based on the actions of Willie Douglas, an orphan belonging to the Loch Leven household, who remained a faithful servant of Mary until her death.

The dying Douglas is said to be Geordie Douglas, but he did not die at Langside, and continued to serve his queen til her death.