holbein-ambassadors public domain

Discover the hidden messages in Hans Holbein’s ‘The Ambassadors’

Carolyn shares details of this upcoming Vectis DFAS event. Ed


Vectis DFAS at Quay Arts’ second lecture promises to unravel the tempestuous circumstances of the creation of Hans Holbein’s ‘The Ambassadors’ and reveal the hidden messages concealed within.

Hans Holbein was the first great mainland painter to spend much time in England and he brought with him a sophistication and skill, with far reaching consequences for this island’s artistic development.

His ‘Ambassadors’ is recognised by the National Gallery of London as one of its greatest treasures. It dates from a tradition in the arts when no object was without meaning and symbolism. However, practically all of this meaning has been lost to the modern observer.

The painting tells us much about the state of Europe at the time and the hopes and fears of its major players.

The lecturer
Lecturer Anthony Russell has travelled much of the world, combining painting with tour lecturing.

Now based in London he spends much of his time lecturing and undertaking research, while assisting at the British Museum with outreach events and visiting lecturers.

Where and when
The lecture takes place on Thursday 17th November from 8pm.

Doors open at 6.30pm with a Moroccan Buffet and bar available.

Lecture runs between 8pm and 9pm. Visitors welcome, tickets are £8 for non-members.

For more details see our Website.