Bohemia and England

This book is devoted to the question of the cultural relations between Bohemia and England in the second half of the 14th century. Using historical events such as marriages, negotiations and diplomatic liaisons, it helps the reader to understand how artistic influences were transmitted during the late Middle Ages. A detailed analysis of preserved works of art is followed by a comparison with contemporary art production in Bohemia. The marriage of the royal daughter Anne of Bohemia to Richard II Plantagenet, King of England, in 1382, is especially examined in great detail. In what way can Richard II's craving for splendour be compared to his father-in-law's, the Roman Emperor Charles IV? Did Queen Anne bring illuminated manuscripts with her to England? How did the new renaissance culture of Italy and the liberation of artists influence court culture across Europe? These are just a few of the many questions the author has endeavoured to answer in this book.