Renaissance Decorative Painting in Scotland

A unique study of Scottish decorative painting of the 16th and 17th centuries, of which over 100 examples survive or are recorded. These decorative schemes occur in a wide range of buildings from modest houses to royal palaces, and this illustrated book looks at their meaning and significance in a Scottish context. The subject matter depicted is wide — biblical, classical and grotesque, with many schemes adapted from continental print sources and pattern books, using decorative styles which became fashionable throughout Europe at this time. Containing new research and documentation compiled over 10 years, this study not only looks at the different types of painting, but is also a fascinating record of the taste and ideas of Reformation Scotland.

Reviews of Renaissance Decorative Painting in Scotland

'… Michael Bath's important book is particularly welcome … He is very strong on the paintings' literary and historical contexts, and brilliantly imaginative on the reasons why the most important of them were produced. … In every way Renaissance Decorative Painting in Scotland represents a huge advance on Apted's trail-blazing study.' Anthony Wells-Cole in Burlington Magazine 'This wonderfully illustrated volume is a hugely welcome addition to our knowledge of the historic culture of Scotland … Michael Bath, and the Museum, have done us proud.' Charles McKean in History Scotland magazine