LARS Tharp, a presenter on the BBC’s Antiques Roadshow program, is the first speaker for the year of the Australian Decorative and Fine Arts Society, Mornington Peninsula branch.
The ceramics and oriental art specialist, broadcaster and speaker will tell the story of London’s Foundling Hospital, at 5.30pm, Friday 26 February, at Peninsula Community Theatre, Wilsons Rd, Mornington.
The Foundling hospital was established in 1739 by philanthropic sea captain Thomas Coram as a home for the education and maintenance of exposed and deserted young children. Artist William Hogarth had a long association with the hospital and was a governor, as was composer George Handel.
“Lars will explore how Thomas Coram achieved his aim of providing a refuge for ‘foundlings’, and for babies at risk of infanticide, and the part Hogarth and Handel played in this. It is a gripping story with huge resonance for our own time,” society chair Janet Glaspole said.
Those wishing to attend should call Glad Hungerford, 9787 2092, who will reserve a seat for $20.
The hour-long, illustrated lectures are followed by light refreshments and an opportunity to meet the lecturer and members.
A range of topics to be covered this year includes “Inside Monet’s house at Giverny”; “Elizabeth Taylor’s greatest love affair … with jewels” and “The aesthetics of traditional Japanese architecture and design”.
