Margaret, Duchess of Parma – Museum of Oudenaarde, Belgium

The MOU is launching a scoop: for the first time, an international exhibition is dedicated to a special woman: Margaret of Parma , daughter of Emperor Charles and maid Johanna Van der Gheynst. In her hometown of Oudenaarde.

With portraits and beautiful objects that Margaretha cherished or for which she commissioned. They come together for the first time in 500 years. Also with a magnificent festive table that evokes ‘the party of the century’. And with contemporary interventions by photographer Lieve Blancquaert and lutenist Floris De Rycker.

Margaret of Parma (1522-1586) is not the least: she was governor of the Netherlands in a turbulent time at the beginning of the Eighty Years’ War. She was also a social figure in Italy. She was also a true art lover and patron. High time that this fascinating figure gets her correct place in history.

First
At the exhibition you will meet a grande dame of the turbulent 16th century. Well-known portraits, major art commissions from Margaretha and intimate possessions that reveal the real Margaretha: they come together again in Oudenaarde. Paintings and drawings, tapestries and miniatures, gold and silver work, stained glass windows…: they immerse you in the art and culture of the 16th century, a pivotal time in our history. Get to know the rituals and traditions of that time: (falconry) hunting, parties, etiquette and dress code, rituals, music…

Contemporary
Photographer Lieve Blancquaert portrays modern Margaret(h)as and brings them together in an impressive installation. In the Church of Our Lady in Pamele, Margaretha’s baptismal church. Who are the Margarethas in our time? What does Margaretha stand for in 2024? Do we recognize universal, feminine themes? Lutenist Floris De Rycker develops a soundscape full of atmosphere for the exhibition: contemporary and with echoes of the music at Margaretha’s court.