Tim Schroder will give a talk about William Beckford, patron and collector of goldsmiths’ work.

William Beckford (1760-1844) is famous as the author of Vathek  and as builder of Fonthill Abbey, a gothic fantasy built on a vast scale  in Wiltshire and demolished soon afterwards. But Beckford was also a great collector and patron. Among the many fields in which he collected, silver and other goldsmiths’ work had a special place. He designed and commissioned countless objects incorporating precious materials and which were made to an extraordinarily high standard of craftsmanship. These sumptuous things evoke the world of the Renaissance prince but are beautiful and original works of art that reveal much of Beckford’s fastidious and intellectually curious mind.

Talks are free to members.  Visitors are very welcome, £4 per person.