This research cluster brings together the expertise of Edinburgh staff and students working on any aspect of material culture in the early modern period.

Comprising scholars from a variety of fields and geographical specialisations, the cluster aims to foster interdisciplinary approaches to the study of materiality. In particular, we are interested in the myriad relationships between people and things, interrogating issues of making, consumption, exchange and agency.

The group hosts a range of events, including the annual Early Modern Material and Visual Culture Seminar Series which takes place online during the autumn semester. The programme showcases emerging scholarship in material culture studies, promoting the work of PhD students and Early Career Researchers. 

Further events, such as guest lectures, student-led seminars and museum and gallery study days are often planned throughout the year, building on existing collaborations with National Museums Scotland and the National Galleries of Scotland.

Contact materialcultureresearcheca@ed.ac.uk for more information and please follow the research cluster on social media: @mvccluster on Instagram and @mvcseminar on X.