If the name of the Society of Antiquaries doesn’t smack of exclusivity then I don’t know what does.
So imagine my surprise when I discovered that they are open to the public most Fridays in term-time (best to check on their website before visiting just to be sure)
We were welcomed in and invited to wander around downstairs where we found some remarkable objects including this collection of 16th Century portraits.
Many are of royalty, others eminent in their time yet now unknown, such as William Paulet. He was, so I discovered, a Privy Council advisor at the court of Henry VIII.
What I find interesting is not just the people depicted but the paintings themselves. Consider the various styles and when they were made with what was happening in other countries at the same time.
The sharp features of Richard III are here; his death at the Battle of Bosworth marked the end of the Plantagenets. By the way you can also see a ceremonial cross from that battle in a very reflective display case in the entrance hall (hence no photo).
This portrait of Mary I, which, despite her rich robes, contrasts quite dramatically with
this one of Mary of Austria. Visually and historically such different personalities.
Most of the artists are unknown but there is a real sense of character in these paintings.
It’s a fascinating place to visit if you happen to be in Piccadilly on a Friday afternoon and is, of course, free.
