This pioneering and unprecedented study shows how portraits of civic officials (mayors, aldremen, college and school masters and civic benefactors) articulated civic values in post-Reformation England. It also explores English portraiture, patrons and painters before the full reception of new-classical styles associated with the Renaissance.

Robert Tittler is Distinguished Professor Emeritus at Concordia University, Montreal

Preface
Introduction
1. The formation of English portrait traditions
2. The evidence: Patrons and venues
3. Painters
4. Timing and circumstances
5. Content and meaning
6. Audience and display
7. Conclusion
Appendices
A. Civic portraits painted or acquired, 1500-1640
B. The cost of paintings, 1500-1640
Bibliography
Index