The Grand Tour through France and Italy became a popular journey made by the classically educated male members of the northern European ruling class to complete their education. This course will trace the origins of the practice and its development with a particular emphasis on the artistic experience of the traveller. Further areas including historical and social context will be discussed along with the specific goals of the travels which included learning languages and good manners and forming a deeper understanding of the politics of other countries.

From the 17th century onwards the Grand Tour often focused on the admiration of classical and Renaissance art as an essential part of a gentleman’s education. These tourists often bought pieces of antique sculpture or commissioned artworks to bring back; sometimes they would even bring an artist or architect home with them.

 Artists to be discussed include Canova and Canaletto as well as Irish artists like Hugh Douglas Hamilton. There will be one visit to the National Gallery which has an impressive collection of works connected with the Grand Tour.