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Hidden Shakespeare Mural Rediscovered After Centuries
10 Jan
Summary
- A 17th-century mural depicting Shakespeare's Venus and Adonis was found.
- The artwork is located in St Albans at the White Hart Hotel.
- Conservation efforts are urgently needed as the mural disintegrates.
An important 17th-century mural, illustrating William Shakespeare's "Venus and Adonis," has been uncovered within the historic White Hart Hotel in St Albans, Hertfordshire. This rare artwork is estimated to date from around 1593, shortly after the poem's publication. It is one of only two known contemporary illustrations of Shakespeare's works.
The mural, situated in a 15th-century section of the hotel, is currently deteriorating behind protective screens. Recognizing its cultural significance, specialists from the St Albans and Hertfordshire Architectural and Archaeological Society, with Historic England's approval, will conduct a detailed investigation starting January 19. This will determine the mural's exact condition.
Dr. Andrea Kirkham, a specialist conservator, will lead the assessment. The goal is to identify necessary actions for preserving this national treasure for future generations. While the full cost of conservation is expected to be substantial, potentially in the hundreds of thousands of pounds, the immediate focus is on understanding and safeguarding the artwork.
