Medieval Women: In Their Own Words

25 Oct 2024-2 Mar 2025

Overview

With over 140 extraordinary items, discover the rich and complex lives of women of medieval Europe, both famous and forgotten, through their own words, visions and experiences.

Discover the rich and complex lives of women in the Middle Ages, with over 140 extraordinary items that reveal their artistry, resourcefulness, courage and struggles.

Must-see highlights include:

• The Book of the Queen by Christine de Pizan: The first professional woman author in Europe
• Sibylle of Flanders' 12th-century ivory cross: Owned by Sibylle, countess of Flanders, who went on Crusade to the Holy Land
• A silk textile made in al-Andalus (Islamic Spain), where Muslim women labourers were fundamental to the silk industry
• Julian of Norwich’s The Revelations of Divine Love: the first work in English definitely authored by a woman
• A 15th-century birthing girdle: a manuscript inscribed with prayers and charms that was used for protection during childbirth
• Battel Hall retable a rare surviving painting from a medieval English nunnery
• On Women's Cosmetics: a recipe book likely to have been composed in Southern Italy in the 12th century with recipes for hair dye remover, face creams and breath freshener
• A lion skull that possibly came from a pet lion of Margaret of Anjou, Queen of England.

Break free from traditional narratives and encounter personalities both famous and forgotten who tell the story of medieval womanhood. And discover stories familiar to women today, from the gender pay gap and harmful stereotypes, to access to healthcare and education, as well as challenges faced by female leaders.

Hear the words of medieval women from across the centuries, speaking powerfully for the thousands whose voices have not survived.

Plus join us for a fascinating series of events accompanying the exhibition, including a medieval Get Ready With Me and curators' lunchtime lecture. See website for more details.

Book now