George IV:
Art & Spectacle

Client: Royal Collection Trust, 2020
Edited by Kate Heard and Kathryn Jones
Hardback | 294pp | 290 x 230 mm

‘The catalogue is brilliant – George IV springs off the page, [and the book includes] fantastic illustrations.‘
Saturday Review, BBC Radio 4

Published in conjunction with the exhibition George IV: Art & Spectacle at The Queen’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace, this monograph examines the man behind the crown through his unrivalled art collection. Both in his role as Prince of Wales and, from 1820, king, George IV purchased paintings, metalwork, textiles, furniture, watercolours, books and ceramics in vast numbers, many of these works by the finest artists of the day. 

Through the spectacular interiors of his houses and palaces in London and Brighton, numerous flattering portraits, carefully choreographed state occasions and consciously ostentatious fashion choices, George IV attempted to shape public perception of his role as heir to the throne and as king.