Queen Osburh

This resin figurine beautifully depicts Queen Osburgh holding her infant son, Alfred the Great. Standing at approx. 14 cm tall, it captures a tender moment in history, representing the mother of one of England's most revered monarchs. The intricate detailing of the figurine reflects the historical significance of both figures, making it a valuable piece for collectors of Anglo-Saxon history and royal memorabilia.

Key Features:

• Material: Crafted from high-quality resin, ensuring fine detailing and durability.
• Size: Approx 14 cm tall, making it a perfect size for display in any collection.
• Historical Significance: Features Queen Osburgh with Baby Alfred, offering a connection to the early medieval Anglo-Saxon royal family.
• Intricate Detail: The figurine captures the delicate features of both the mother and child, reflecting the tenderness and historical importance of the moment.

Historical Context:

Queen Osburgh was the wife of King Æthelwulf of Wessex and the mother of Alfred the Great, one of England’s most significant kings. Alfred, who later became the King of Wessex, is best known for his defence of England against the Viking invasions and for laying the foundations for the unified English kingdom. Osburgh's role as a mother to such a prominent ruler highlights her importance in the early life of Alfred, who would grow up to become a legendary leader. This figurine honours the Anglo-Saxon royal family during a period of Viking warfare and political instability, marking a pivotal time in English history.

Educational Purpose:

• Royal History: The figurine can be used as a tool to discuss the Anglo-Saxon monarchy and the important figures of the period, such as Alfred the Great and his family.
• Early Medieval England: It provides a visual representation of the Anglo-Saxon royal family, helping students connect with the historical figures who shaped the development of medieval England.
• Viking Invasions: The figurine is an excellent starting point to discuss the role of Alfred the Great in defending England against Viking invasions and the broader context of Viking raids during the period.
• Women in History: It highlights the often-overlooked role of Queen Osburgh and other women in shaping the lives of their children, particularly future leaders, during a turbulent period in English history.

Teacher Notes:

Discussion Prompts:

• How did Queen Osburgh's role as a mother influence the early life of Alfred the Great?
• What role did the Viking invasions play in shaping Alfred’s leadership and England’s future?
• Discuss the importance of women in history, particularly in the context of motherhood and royalty.

Classroom Activity Ideas:

• Have students create a timeline of Alfred the Great's life, highlighting key moments, such as his defence of Wessex and his role in uniting England.
• Assign students to research other royal mothers throughout history and their influence on their children’s reigns.
• Use the figurine as a starting point for a discussion or essay on the Anglo-Saxon period and its impact on the formation of medieval England.

This Queen Osburgh with Baby Alfred figurine offers a heartfelt representation of motherhood and royalty during the Anglo-Saxon era, making it a perfect addition to any historical or royal-themed collection and a valuable resource for classroom discussions and lesson plans focused on early medieval history.