MAD MONKS AND NAUGHTY NUNS : Figures of Monks and Nuns in English Porcelain with Matthew Martin

Many 18th century English porcelain factories produced figures representing members of Catholic religious orders. The function of these figures has never been entirely clear. This talk will examine some ideas about the reception of these figures, looking especially at the phenomenon of masquerade, and the existence of 18th century English Recusant art collectors.

Matthew Martin is Assistant Curator International Decorative Arts and Antiquities at the National Gallery of Victoria. His research interests include 18th century porcelain sculpture and the role of Recusant elites as art collectors in 18th century England.

Chelsea porcelain factory, Nun, circa 1752-55, V&A Museum, London, C.205-1940