Golden altarpieces and sumptuous embroideries; women perched precariously on a dragon or holding a tooth in pincers ; cats, dogs and unicorns – 
this Study Day explores the treasures, experiences and symbols of Medieval and Renaissance art.
We examine the artefacts of the Church, from painted screens to pearl-strewn vestments, favourite saints and their emblems and finally at the omni-presence of animals, from monkeys to salamanders – pampered domestic beasts or symbols of mischief and even evil – whoever thought a hedgehog was a moral lesson?
Timetable for the Day
10.00 Coffee
c10.30 Lecture 1 – The Artefacts of the Church
From sumptuous vestments to decorated screens, stained glass and altars.
c11.45 Lecture 2 – Medieval Animals – Loved and Feared
An Exploration of animal symbolism in Medieval and Renaissance art.
c13.00 Lunch
c14.00 Lecture 3 – Saints and their Emblems
The depictions and unique responsibilities of some favourite and unusual saints.
Morning coffee and wine or soft drink, fruit and coffee or tea will be provided at lunchtime. Bring your own packed lunch
Price £30 – Book Here
Nicole Mezey, BA, MA, FHEA, FRSA
Nicole studied Art History at the Universities of Sussex, York and Paris and is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and of the Higher Education Academy. She was Senior Lecturer at Queen’s University, Belfast until 2009, working primarily with adults, managing and teaching on both the Part-Time degree and Extra-Mural programmes and conducting annual, international study-tours. She also established and was first Director of the Department of Art History, the first in the north of Ireland. Nicole now lives in central London and is a freelance lecturer, working for organisations such as national museums, universities, the National Trust and private companies. She has been lecturing for the Arts Society since 2011, including two tours of societies in Australia and New Zealand.