Edwin Austin Abbey (1852–1911) was a distinguished American painter, illustrator, and muralist who became a central figure in the Golden Age of Illustration. Living and working primarily in England during the late Victorian and Edwardian eras, Abbey was largely self-taught but gained early acclaim through his meticulous pen-and-ink drawings for Harper's Weekly. His exceptional talent caught the eye of influential figures, eventually leading him to receive prestigious commissions, most notably the "Quest of the Holy Grail" murals for the Boston Public Library, which established him as a premier Academic Realist. Belonging to the Pre-Raphaelite-influenced circle, Abbey's work is celebrated for its deep historical accuracy, dramatic lighting, and romantic narrative power. Translating his intricate scenes into a counted cross-stitch design allows stitchers to engage with his passion for Shakespearean themes and medieval lore. Each project captures the rich textures of period costumes and the theatrical atmosphere of his compositions, offering a sense of historical immersion and grand storytelling. Stitching an Abbey piece is a journey into the past, evoking the chivalry and elegance of a bygone era through every carefully placed thread.