Expo at Oudenaarde highlights prominent role of Margaret of Parma in 16th century
The Museum Oudenaarde (MOU) has opened the new exhibition “Margaret: The Emperor’s Daughter between Power and Image”. It’s the first time in 500 years that an international expo is dedicated to Margaret (1522-1586), daughter of Emperor Charles V, in her hometown.
Margaret, Duchess of Parma, is the first child of Charles V. Her mother, Johanna Van der Gheynst, was a local maid but this low status didn’t prevent her from becoming governor of the Netherlands at 37. She was among the most powerful figures in the turbulent Europe of her time, the early days of the Eighty Years’ War. Apart from possessing solid political qualities, she was also a society figure in Italy and a passionate patron of the arts.
In the expo, the MOU Museum Oudenaarde displays a large array of portraits and luxury objects that Margaret cherished or commissioned. A wide range of artworks offer an insight into the culture of the 16th century, among them paintings, drawings, tapestries, gold and silverware, miniatures and stained-glass windows. A magnificent banquet evokes the “feast of the century” in the 16th century.
In addition, the exhibition includes contemporary contributions by photographer Lieve Blancquaert and lutenist Floris De Rycker. Blancquaert portrays modern “Margarets”, while De Rycker created a soundscape with references to the music of Margaret's time.
The exhibition runs until 5 January 2025 at the Museum Oudenaarde.
#FlandersNewsService | Margaret of Parma (1522-86), governor of the Netherlands, illegitimate daughter of Emperor Charles V, late 16th century (panel) © BELGA PHOTO BRIDGEMAN