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.

Table of Contents

Abbreviations and references; Locations open to the public; Preface; A National Style; Applied Emblematics; Emblems Newly Devised; Alexander Seton's Suburban villa; Mark Kerr's Dreamwork; 'Monuments of Idolaterie'; Earlshall; Grve Sentences; Topics and Schemes; Inventory: Examples and Locations; bibliography; Select Index; Picture Credits

Author Biography

Michael Bath was, until his retirement, Professor of Renaissance Studies at the University of Strathclyde. He is Chair of the International Society for Emblem Studies.