The art of the Dutch-born artist Lawrence Alma-Tadema appears to have strong ties with the Victorian English painting school. He touched upon a variety of topics, including subjects from the history of Ancient Egypt and the Middle Ages; he also painted portraits and landscapes. This painting is dedicated to an event from the history of the Merovingians. According to the legend, Fredegonda was a servant at the court of Chilperic I who managed to become a mistress, and after Queen Galswintha’s death she became the king’s wife. Fredegonda had a long record of atrocities in the Meroving state in the late 6th century. After Chilperic’s death she ordered the death of Praetextatus, who took the post of bishop of Rouen against her will. This story is the basis for the painting. From a historical point of view, Lawrence Alma-Tadema rendered all objects accurately, but he took liberties with the style. The bright palette and decorative composition are a signature of Victorian painting.