Richard Westall, R.A. (Reepham 1765-1836 London)

The main subject of Shakespeare’s Henry IV Part I is the rebellion against King Henry by the discontent Percy family, led by Sir Henry Percy, known as Hotspur. The Percys are joined in their insurrection by Edmund Mortimer, Earl of March, and the Welshman Owen Glendower.
The present lot depicts the meeting of Hotspur, his uncle Thomas Percy, Earl of Worcester, Mortimer and Glendower at the Archdeacon of Bangor’s home in Wales. The rebels study a map of the kingdom, which they plan to divide between them after they overthrow King Henry. Hotspur is to get the northern part of England, Mortimer the southeast and Glendower the western part of England and Wales. Hotspur complains about his share of the land and threatens to divert the course of the River Trent, causing a disagreement with Glendower.
The sprawling, confident figure of Hotspur, in dispute with Glendower, dominates the scene. Glendower stands behind, gesturing with one hand while reaching for the hilt of his sword with the other. The quarrel is ended by Glendower agreeing to Hotspur’s request.