Duke of Orleans in the Tower of London. 16th-century artwork of French nobleman Charles, Duke of Orleans (1394-1465) being held captive at the Tower of London. In the background is London Bridge, in what is one of the earliest accurate depictions of London. Charles had been captured by the English after the Battle of Agincourt in 1415. As he was in the line of succession to the French throne, he was held captive for the next 25 years, being held in the Tower from 1430. He wrote several books of poetry, and is here shown (from right): writing, standing at a window, and dispatching a letter in the courtyard. Artwork from 'Poems of Charles, Duke of Orleans' (England, circa 1500).