The World of King James VI & I

Marking the 400-year anniversary of King James’s death, The World of King James VI &I charts his remarkable reign through stories of friendship, family, feuds and ambition. Son of Mary, Queen of Scots, successor to Elizabeth I, King James (1566–1625) was the first monarch to rule over Scotland, England, Ireland and Wales. 

Drawing on themes with contemporary relevance including national identity, queer history, belief and spirituality, The World of King James VI & I is an enriching journey through the complex life of a king who changed the shape of the United Kingdom. Over 140 objects are on display, including ornate paintings, dazzling jewels, lavish designs and important loans from galleries across the UK, celebrating craft and visual art from the 16th and 17th centuries.