1-627-797 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The death of Prince Arthur (1187-1203), 19th century. When Richard I died, King John (1167-1216) did not gain immediate universal recognition as king. Some regarded his young nephew, Arthur of Brittany, the son of John's late brother Geoffrey, as the rightful heir. Arthur fought his uncle for the throne, with the support of King Philip II of France. However, by 1200 Philip recognised John over Arthur. It is alleged that after King John had captured Arthur and kept him alive in prison for some time in the castle of Rouen, he slew Arthur with his own hand and, tying a heavy stone to the body, cast it into the Seine.