The Art of Monarchy
Summary: Will Gompertz enters the Royal Collection to examine some of the objects that have adorned, defined and described the story of a thousand years of the British Monarchy. The programmes are broadcast weekly, from 11 February to 31 March 2012, on Saturdays at 10.30.
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- Artist: BBC Radio 4
- Copyright: (C) BBC 2012
Podcasts:
How a monarchy maintains a firm hold on power by securing its succession and leaving a proper legacy. That legacy in collecting terms is cared for by the Royal Collection: we look at how it works today and some of its celebrated objects
The development of a unified Britain, an overseas Empire and the evolution of a Commonwealth is demonstrated through objects from the Royal Collection from the 16th to the 20th century.
Throughout its 1000 year history, British monarchs have embraced developments in technology and science. This has enabled the Monarchy to adapt and renew itself while also allowing a personal engagement with intellectual trends.
The evolving contract between the rulers and ruled has seen adoration and conflict over the centuries.
The display of power through objects designed to impress and inspire has been vital in ensuring the status of the monarchy, and by reflection the nation.
The history of the Monarchy's changing relationship with religion and faiths over the past 1,000 years.
The importance of understanding your enemies and making and keeping friends, demonstrated by objects from a thousand years of the British monarchy.
Will Gompertz looks at some of the most personal royal images in the Royal Collection to see what insights they give us into the lasting power of the monarchy. From the very earliest royal photographs to the revealing portrait of a seductive Victoria, and from the forgotten son of Henry VIII to the manipulated images of George III, Will asks how important understanding their own image has been to the longevity of our Kings and Queens.
