Material and Visual Culture

We understand material and visual culture as a central part of the period’s rich and complex commodity culture, social history, and global networks. Geographically we focus on Britain, the Atlantic World, early America, China and India. 

We pay close attention to object-based analysis, archaeological sites, architecture, painting, sculpture and ceramics, printing on paper and textiles, among other visual and material forms. Our research contextualises visual and material culture within art writing, art criticism, and material literacy. We have particular expertise in practice-based research in the areas of dress, needlework, sensory histories and soundscapes. Our work in this area also uses digital tools to make material and print resources accessible to students, researchers and the public.