Katrien Lichtert

Step back in time to the captivating world of 16th-century Europe with this compelling portrait of Margaret of Parma, governor of the Netherlands for Philip II of Spain, and a woman who left an indelible mark on history. Through vivid storytelling and meticulous research, this book delves into the life and legacy of Margaret, shedding light on her influence and contributions to the tumultuous political landscape of her era. From exhilarating falcon hunts to lavish feasts, intricate etiquette, and the complexities of dress codes, readers are transported to a time of opulence and intrigue. With profound reflections on customs and traditions, this captivating narrative offers a rich tapestry of life in the Renaissance court. Within the possibilities of her role, she tried to prevent war and bloodshed. Religious conflicts would divide Europe for more than another century. Margaret of Parma's story is sure to leave a lasting impression.

In 2019, it will be 450 years since the death of Pieter Bruegel the Elder (c. 1526/28-1569). To mark this anniversary, the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna is organising the first ever retrospective of Bruegel's work, while The World of Bruegel will be shown in the Bokrijk Open-Air Museum. The two institutions are joining forces to bring Bruegel's masterpiece The Fight Between Carnival and Lent (1559) to life. An important key in this respect are the numerous everyday objects that are depicted in the painting. In collaboration with the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen (Rotterdam) and the Rijksmuseum (Amsterdam), the props that Bruegel depicted have been examined and interpreted from a contemporary perspective. The authors allow the objects to speak for themselves, preceded by an introductory essay by curator Sabine Penot of the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna. Just as Bruegel's paintings were 'conversation pieces' in their day, intended to trigger a discussion between guests during dinners, this book presents a three-way conversation about The Fight Between Carnival and Lent through Bruegel realia, in which art history (Katrien Lichtert), historical design (Alexandra van Dongen and Lucinda Timmermans) and literature (Abdelkader Benali) enter into a dialogue. In A Conversation Piece, the authors reveal the humour, symbolism, imagery and hidden stories behind the everyday objects in the painting. The exhibition Pieter Bruegel the Elder will run from 2 October 2018 to 13 January 2019 in the Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna, and the exhibition The World of Bruegel will be on display in the Bokrijk Open-Air Museum from 6 April to 20 October 2019.