A Golden Age: European Renaissance Jewellery and Accessories

One-day course

+44 (0)20 7942 2000
Tickets available from 10.00 on Wednesday, 4 February 2026
Join us at V&A South Kensington for a study day in collaboration with the École Du Louvre as we explore miniature masterpieces and body ornaments, European Renaissance jewellery and related accessories. We will explore how they reflect the wealth, taste and customs of the Renaissance court elite. Drawing on the same decorative sources as painters and sculptors, goldsmiths created spectacular jewellery and accessories with mythological, historical or devotional themes, in increasingly complex forms and dazzling colours. Rare surviving pieces, but also portraits, drawings and prints allow us to trace a panorama of styles and customs, between national identities and the rapid spread of fashions across a hyperconnected Europe. Through these highly symbolic objects, we will also be able to explore a facet of the technical, political, economic and cultural history of the Renaissance. 
course photo

Study day speakers
Alice Minter and Julie Rohou

Alice Minter, Senior Curator of The Gilbert Collection at the V&A and Julia Rohou, Curator at the National Museum of the Renaissance-Château d'Ecouen

I loved the day, it made me feel really inspired, thank you! Previous V&A Academy Course Attendee

Course overview

In this study day, hosted in collaboration with the École Du Louvre, join us as we explore miniature masterpieces and body ornaments, European Renaissance jewellery and related accessories. We will explore how they reflect the wealth, taste and customs of the Renaissance court elite. We will also be able to explore a facet of the technical, political, economic and cultural history of the Renaissance through a mix of lectures, in conversations and object spotlight sessions.
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Membership Priority Booking will open at 10.00 GMT on 4 February 2026. General Booking will open at 10.00 GMT on Thursday 12 February 2026.

Being up close with treasured objects from the V&A's collections brings your learning to life. Spend time with our incredible collections, alongside expert tutors and your fellow learners. 

Enrol now

One-day course: A Golden Age: European Renaissance Jewellery and Accessories

11 June 2026

£100.00

Tickets not available yet

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+44 (0)20 7942 2000

Open 10.00 - 13.00, Monday to Sunday (closed 24-26 December)

Header image: The Heneage or Armada Jewel, enamelled gold pendant with profile bust in gold of Elizabeth I on blue enamel ground under rock crystal, England, about 1600. © Victoria and Albert Museum, London