ArtsNational Canberra Guest: Susan Kay-Williams Lecture
IMPERIAL PURPLE TO MARIE-ANTOINETTE’S FLEAS: THE COLOURFUL HISTORY OF TEXTILES TO THE 18TH CENTURY
In this lecture, Susan explores the fascinating story of how dyes were discovered, made, and used from the earliest times to the end of the 18th century. Susan will look at the social importance of certain colours including red, blue, and purple. The use of colour in textiles is a story that travels from Europe to India and the Americas; a tale of exploration, invention, war, the church, money, power and sex!
In this lecture, Susan explores the fascinating story of how dyes were discovered, made, and used from the earliest times to the end of the 18th century. Susan will look at the social importance of certain colours including red, blue, and purple. The use of colour in textiles is a story that travels from Europe to India and the Americas; a tale of exploration, invention, war, the church, money, power and sex!
Tuesday 10 March 2026 6:00 PM - 7:45 PM (UTC+11)
Location
National Library of Australia
Parkes ACT 2600
Contact Details
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ArtsNational Canberra Guest: Susan Kay-Williams Lecture
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