Fine Arts Valuation Dissertations
| Author:  | Milne, Helen |
| Title:  | Bess of Hardwick |
| Abstract:  | The Elizabethan period began, with the accession of Elizabeth I to the thrown, after the death of Mary Tudor. During this era the Elizabethan style was eclectic, which is reflected in the architecture being produced, and the position of the Queen was unstable due to a change in religion. Power within this society was encompassed around the courtly circles, in particular those associated with Queen Elizabeth I. The power of women in society was increasing, and at the forefront of this movement was Bess of Hardwick.
Hardwick's ascent into the higher circles of society was achieved, primarily, through her marriages to four distinguished gentlemen. Thus it was this newfound status and wealth that enabled her to be active in the role of a patron. However literature reflecting on Hardwick's achievements is scarce and there is a lack of depth in research referring to her patronage. Through evaluating, and collaborating, the available resources in this area this review discussed the life and achievements of Bess of Hardwick.
The main discussion points that became apparent through the research, were that, Hardwick was a business woman, patron, and artist in her own right, with dominant characteristics similar to the Queen, Elizabeth I. Through gathering available resources it became evident that it is not adequate to describe Hardwick solely as a business woman, as much research in the past has. Cross-references of historical documents suggest that Hardwick was indeed a powerful patron, linked to, many architectural accomplishments. It was decided that further research would be required, through comparisons to other females of this period, to substantiate the author’s findings |
| Subjects:  |
Architecture  
Patronage  
Bess Of Hardwick  
Elizabethan Art  
|
| Year:  | 2001 |
| Award:  | BA |
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