'On the Nature of Women': Tudor and Jacobean Portraits of Women 1535-1620

This special display explores the representation and role of noble women in Tudor and Jacobean England. During the period there was much debate about female nature with male writers characterising women as either shrewish and prone to vice or faithful and prudent. The women featured in the display range from dutiful wives and mothers to those tainted by scandal and intrigue. The display explores how character and virtues were represented through portraiture and sheds new light on the role of women during the period including their involvement in momentous political events and life at the royal court.

The display features many previously unseen portraits, several of which have been specially restored, and will be accompanied by a series of family activities, talks and events.