The Major Oak, Sherwood Forest is a limited edition tree print by British countryside photographer Charles Sainsbury-Plaice. This atmospheric photograph captures the immense scale, sculptural form and unmistakable character of one of Britain’s most celebrated ancient trees, creating striking woodland wall art for tree lovers, history enthusiasts and admirers of the British countryside.
The story of the Major Oak
Standing in Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire, the Major Oak is famous for its association with the legend of Robin Hood. Tradition holds that the ancient English oak sheltered Robin and his Merry Men, although this belongs to folklore rather than documented history. Its extraordinary age, broad canopy and hollow trunk have nevertheless made it a natural focus for generations of visitors.
The oak is generally estimated to be between 800 and 1,100 years old. Its trunk measures about 10 metres around and its canopy extends to roughly 28 metres. The tree takes its modern name from Major Hayman Rooke, the soldier and antiquarian who described it in 1790. In 2014, it was named England’s Tree of the Year in a public vote organised by the Woodland Trust.
About this limited edition print
Charles Sainsbury-Plaice’s photograph celebrates more than a famous landmark. It reveals the individuality of an ancient tree shaped by centuries of growth, weather and human history. The carefully composed view allows the oak to dominate the landscape while the surrounding grass and woodland place it firmly within Sherwood Forest.
- Limited edition of 125, plus 12 artist’s proofs
- Giclée printed on archival photo rag paper
- Available as a print only or mounted and framed
- Black and gold Italian wooden frame
- Triple mounted and glazed with Artglass to reduce reflections and help protect against ultraviolet light
- Photography by Charles Sainsbury-Plaice
Sizes and framing
530 × 430 mm artwork: available as a print only or mounted and framed. The framed dimensions are approximately 790 × 690 mm.
780 × 580 mm artwork: available as a print only or mounted and framed. The framed dimensions are approximately 1080 × 850 mm.
Alternative printing and presentation options may be available by quotation. Framed prints require specialist handling. UK delivery only.
Explore related tree collections
Discover more ancient trees, woodland landscapes and British forest photography in our Tree Prints collection and browse the complete range of Charles Sainsbury-Plaice prints and artwork.
The same remarkable subject is also available as The Major Oak greeting card. You can also browse our wider collection of Tree and Woodland Greeting Cards.
For a broader photographic celebration of Britain’s ancient trees and woodlands, discover The Queen’s Green Canopy book by Adrian Houston and Charles Sainsbury-Plaice.
About Charles Sainsbury-Plaice
Charles Sainsbury-Plaice is a British countryside photographer specialising in trees, rural landscapes and country life. His professional experience includes working for HM The King for 25 years. This long association with the British countryside and its traditions informs the careful observation and sense of place found throughout his photography. Discover more of Charles' wider photographic work at charlessainsburyplaice.co.uk.
