ABSTRACT
Throughout the later Middle Ages, women are found among the patrons and practitioners of the arts. Their interests ranged over building, painting and sculpture, music, and books and literature. Women patrons were mostly members of the elite, namely wealthy and patrician townswomen, and members of gentry, noble and royal families. Fashion was an important element in patronage; it applied to all the arts and is particularly noticeable in tombs. Tapestries, plate and religious objects were purchased from master craftsmen, and purchasers had the power of choice over what they wanted, as was also the case with their purchase of books. Many women contributed furnishings to churches, whether these were altar vessels, books or images. The amount expended on these gifts varied enormously according to the resources and social status of the donor, but a common factor exists in the desire of many women to perform this type of good work.
