Pedro and Ines (Acrylic on canvas, 60 x 48 inches)

This painting is a depiction of the dramatic love story between Ines de Castro and Pedro I of Portugal. Ines came to Portugal in 1340 to accompany Constance of Castille, who was to be married to Pedro. But Pedro fell in love with Ines, and when Constance died 5 years later, he wanted to marry her. His father King Alonso refused to allow the marriage, hoping that this would be only temporary infatuation. But Ines and Pedro’s love persisted. King Alonso then ordered her killed by loyal noblemen, fearing that Spanish aristocracy would gain influence in Portugal. When Pedro became king, he publicly executed the killers, tearing their hearts open for having broken his. He then had Ines’ exhumed from her grave and forced the entire court to swear allegiance to their new queen.