This is a series about Art, Politics and Power. Following on from Northern Renaissance Part One: A Window Onto the World, we’ll move into the 16th century via the artists of Germany, France, Scotland and England – Dürer, Cranach and Holbein to name a few. As the shape of patronage changed, we’ll see how art was bound in the politics of the Protestant Reformation, England’s break from Rome, Henry VIII’s tally of wives, Elizabeth I’s thrilling power struggle and her fight against Catholics – this is one of the most fertile and fascinating periods in Northern European history. Art – as ever – is the most potent and relatable illustration of these extraordinary times.
To complement this series, please join Northern Renaissance Part One to complete the story.