The Death Journey of the Lily Maid of Astolat
This work is one of 16 original illustrations produced by Crane for the book King Arthur’s Knights: The Tales Retold for Boys and Girls, 1911 by Henry Gilbert (1868-1937).
It depicts Elaine, the young maid of Astolat, who dies of unrequited love for the Arthurian knight, Sir Lancelot. Her funeral barge is being punted down the River Thames.
In her left hand she holds a bouquet of white lilies, traditionally a symbol that the soul of the departed has received restored innocence after death.
