The Field of the Cloth of Gold

This magnificent painting records the meeting between Henry VIII and Francis I, which took place between 7 to 24 June 1520. The event became known as 'The Field of the Cloth of Gold', owing to the sumptuousness of the materials used for the tents, pavilions and other furnishings. The meeting was a spectacle of the greatest magnificence and the several artists responsible for this painting have made a fairly accurate visual summary of the various festivities that took place during the meeting of the two kings.

In this online event, Rosanna De Sancha, Senior Paintings Conservator, will share the meticulous work undertaken by our conservation team to restore this masterpiece in preparation for its display in our current exhibition, Holbein at the Tudor Court at The Queen's Gallery, Buckingham Palace.

Rosanna will be joined by Food Historian Marc Meltonville, who will provide insight into the decadent culinary delights depicted within the painting which would have been enjoyed by Henry VIII and Francis I during this most special occasion.