tempera on canvas

The subject of this picture is taken from 'The Man born to be King',
a story which appears in William Morris's poem 'The Earthly Paradise'.
Michael a young messenger, is unwittingly carrying a letter ordering
that the bearer be put to death. However, before he can deliver it
he falls asleep in the palace garden, where he catches the eye of the
Princess. On reading the fatal letter, the Princess substitutes with
another ordering that on its delivery Michael must be declared king
and married to her right away.
(Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery)