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The Renaissance

Discover Scotland's contribution to Renaissance art and learning.

The Renaissance, a revival in art and learning inspired by classical Greece and Rome, began to influence Scotland in the 15th century. Discover how this affected architecture and interior design, jewellery, textiles, metalwork and weapons. Find out how Scottish artists and craftsmen combined the new ideas with traditional Scottish designs.

From Gothic to Scottish Renaissance

A good place to start is the Cadboll cup (Case 3). This is a striking example of a distinctively Scottish Renaissance style. But look also at the older styles, for example the Gothic panels made for Cardinal Beaton on the south wall. Carved medallions from the ceiling of the King's Presence Chamber in the palace Stirling Castle represent a more classical Renaissance style.

Remembering Mary Queen of Scots

Mary, Queen of Scots lived in France for many years and, like her father James V and grandfather James IV, represents Renaissance links between France and Scotland. The cast of her tomb - the original is in Westminster Abbey, London - is a dominant feature of the gallery, but look also at the jewellery, coins and medals associated with her in Case 1.

Other things to see

Here you'll also find the Galloway mazer, a feasting cup made in 1569 for Archibald Stewart, later Provost of Edinburgh, and his wife, inherited by the Earls of Galloway.

If you finish your exploration of the Renaissance with the cannons at the east end of the gallery, take a look at the painted ceiling from Rossend Castle. This, too, was part of the Scottish Renaissance enthusiasm for colour and decoration.