Decorating the 'godly' household: religious art in post-reformation Britain

Abstract

Tara Hamling examines decorative features from historic houses throughout England and Scotland and identifies a significant but overlooked trend in the history of British art. She reveals a widespread fashion for large-scale religious imagery in houses owned by the gentry and prosperous middle classes during the period 1560-1660 which is interpreted in relation to life in the 'godly' household. The book is copiously illustrated with narrative imagery in wall painting, plasterwork, carved wood and stone and a range of objects including furniture, textiles and ceramics. The character of this 'decorative' art is explored in relation to the functions of rooms in the early modern domestic interior with a focus on how religious imagery might inform and support spiritual activities taking place within the home. The visual evidence throughout the book is supported by extracts from contemporary texts to elucidate the meanings of imagery for its original audience.

Contents

Religious imagery in Britain, c.1400-c.1660 -- Building 'gorgeous' but godly houses -- The spiritualisation of the household -- Decorating the Protestant household -- Images for meditation -- The presence of religious imagery in the godly household -- Conclusion: last judgements.