ABSTRACT
The frequency and intensity of diplomatic activity increased across Europe in the early modern period. As a result, ambassadors and other diplomatic actors became a common presence at European courts. They were incorporated into the social life of most courts and themselves entertained courtiers and other diplomats as they sought to garner information and represent the interests of their principal. Diplomats were important vectors of cultural exchange between courts, both as cultural agents for royals and courtiers back home and as cultural consumers in their own right. Moreover, they inspired a wide range of cultural productions, from courtly entertainments held in their honour, to images commemorating their missions.
