4. Dealing in Art and Song
In the vivid account of the 16th-century city a bigger and better Exchange is built and there is innovation in dealing in art and song. Michael Begley reads.
In the vivid account of the 16th-century city a bigger and better Exchange is built to reflect Antwerp's influence in trade and commerce. Meanwhile, there's innovation in dealing in art and song. Michael Begley reads.
Michael Pye's history of Antwerp is a fascinating account of the city during its golden age. Told through character studies, novels, paintings, songs, inventories and city ordinances, an evocative portrait emerges. Transformed into a trading powerhouse, nationals from all over Europe converged in Antwerp, making deals and enjoying the free and easy manners in a place where scandal and heresy was tolerated, and fortunes could be made almost over night. It's not long before religious divisions, and bellicose heads of state bring about an end to the city's tolerance, and its financial prowess.
Michael Pye is the author of twelve previous books which have been translated into fifteen languages. He has worked as a journalist, broadcaster and columnist in London and New York.
Image: Salve Felix Antverpia, anonymous woodcut. KU Leuven. Special Collections
Abridged by Richard Hamilton
Produced by Elizabeth Allard
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- Thu 2 Dec 2021 09:45大象传媒 Radio 4 FM
- Fri 3 Dec 2021 00:30大象传媒 Radio 4