Three Renaissance Lives: The Patron, The Poisoner and The Mercenary Soldier

Lecture 3 - Isabella D'Este The Patron

Thursday 26 February 2026

 6.30pm arrival for a 7.00pm start, ending at 8.00pm

The Lowry Room, Tonbridge School

Join Dr Lydia Goodson as she returns for the last in the series of Three Renaissance Lives this term, which will explore the lives and the art of three extraordinary Renaissance men and women.

Renowned throughout Europe, all three were among the rock stars of their time. Their lives tell us much about the Italian Renaissance - as it was lived and how it has been reinvented to suit later narratives.

Art collector, patron, politician and diplomat, Isabella D'Este was one of the most prominent women of Renaissance Italy. She was a formidable figure and a serious scholar, but she was also an enthusiastic fashionista who carefully crafted her public image. In this lecture we will uncover the eventful life and the many interests of the Marchioness who was called 'The First Lady of the World'.

Dr Lydia Goodson is an art historian specialising in the Italian Renaissance, and a former Tonbridge parent. Lydia teaches for the V & A Academy, is an Art History Tutor at CityLIt, an accredited Arts Society lecturer, and a visiting lecturer for The Warburg Institute.

Sandwiches and refreshments will be served.

Places: 40

Cost: £15.00

This event is fully accessible.