January 19^th - The Fine Art of Crime - Malcolm Kenwood

Utilising fascinating actual case studies, this lecture examines the trail and repatriation of stolen art. Although the media often promotes an image of suave and sophisticated gentlemen art thieves the reality is that the art thief is no aristocrat. Stealing fine art and antiques gives criminals a high value commodity that can transcend national and international boundaries and reach those eager to deal with the discreditable and unsuspecting.

The picture is of Vermeer’s The Concert which was stolen in March 1990

February 9^th - Inessential Necessities in 18^th C England - Naomi Motley

In 18^th C society it was regarded as social death not to flaunt your bonbonnière or flutter your fan. This lecture describes the items deemed necessary for gracious living in the 18^th century, described as 'inessential necessities'. It looks at the leading craftsmen of the day and discusses how such items were made, where they were made and how they were used.

The picture is of a bonbonnière made in Staffordshire in about 1770

March 15^th - Bottoms Up! A History of Wine, its Rituals and its Vessels - Andy McConnell

You've seen him on Antiques Roadshow and now he is coming to us. We will have a history of wine and gain insights into the paintings and artefacts, including vessels that have been created to enhance the pleasure of wine and impress guests. Andy believes that lectures should be stimulating, informative and fun both for the audience and the lecturer and he is determined to fulfill his criteria with us.

The Picture is of Bacchus by Guide Reni, 1623

April 19^th - The Power and Glory of our Stately Homes - Anthony Russell

This lecture goes back in time to explain the origins of the country house in British history and will consider their contribution to the decorative arts worldwide. We will see magnificent examples of their grandeur and beauty while considering their impact on society and its development. Consideration will be given to the changing role of the stately home and will explore whether or not they still have an impact on our society.

Visits & Events

The picture is of the Dining Room in Basildon Park

May 17^th - "Don't Make Fun of the Festival" - Jo Walton

As we move into the Olympics we spend some time exploring the festival of 1951: its origins, the planning and the organisation involved. Jo will look at some of the art works created for this festival and reflect on its legacy in the fields of architecture and design. We also hope that this talk will evoke fond memories for our members.

June 14^th - The Influence of Japanese Print on Western Painting - Dr Scott Anderson

Japanese prints became well known in the west during the second half of the 19th century. This lecture will explore their influence on European painters such as Whistler, Degas and van Gogh and will consider how they became crucial for the development of the graphic poster.

July 12^th - From Phaetons to Phantoms - Clive Barham Cartert

Looking at the bodies of motor cars this lecture will describe some common types of carriage, trace how they influenced design, consider some of the skills involved and illustrate coachwork design in its heyday of the first half of the 20^th C

September 20^th - Diamonds: the Most Precious Gemstone of Them All? - Patricia Law

Diamonds outshine other gemstones with their unique qualities of reflection and brilliance. This lecture will examine the reasons why and how diamonds have so fascinated people by looking at the use of the diamond in its different cuts and settings through the ages.

October 18^th - Sandro Botticelli: Painter of Florence - Shirley Smith

Although Botticelli is today one of the best loved artists of the 15^th century, he died in virtual obscurity. This lecture will study his works within the context of the life and times in which he worked.

Suggested reading: Alessandro Botticelli – Alexander Gromling and Tilman Lingesleben – Ullman Feb 2008
Botticelli – Frank Zollner – Prestel Publishing 2005 (Good for images)

The picture is Madonna of the Pomegranate by Botticelli

November 15^th - Mrs Beeton Presents - Annie Gray

Our lecturer will explore Mrs. Beeton's Book of Household Management in its culinary context. She will consider the context in which the book was published looking at dining styles, the functioning of mid-Victorian kitchens and the look, feel and taste of the food.

December 13^th - St. Nicholas of Myra and Santa Claus - Dr. Sally Dormer

Mistaken Identity? This lecture explores the development of St. Nicholas' medieval cult through the artefacts associated with it: icons, wall painting and illuminated manuscripts before charting his eventual transformation into the well-loved Santa Claus.

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