You remember how when the three Wise Men of the East--always thought of in the Middle Ages as Kings--had followed the star which led them to the manger where Christ was born, they brought Him gold and frankincense and myrrh as offerings.

This beautiful story was a favourite one in the Middle Ages, often represented in sculpture and painting.

One King always kneels before the Virgin and Child, presenting his gift, whilst the other two stand behind with theirs in their hands.

The standing Kings and the kneeling Richard in our picture, are grouped in just the same relation to the divine Infant as the three Magi.

The imitation of the type is clear.
There was a special reason for this, in that the birthday of Richard fell upon January 6, the feast of the Epiphany, when the Wise Men did homage to the Babe.