THE WORLD OF KING JAMES VI & I, FILM

On now until Sun 14 Sep 2025

Marking the 400-year anniversary of King James’s death, this exhibition charts his remarkable reign through stories of friendship, family, feuds and ambition. Son of Mary, Queen of Scots, successor to Elizabeth I, King James (1566–1625) was the first monarch to rule over Scotland, England, Ireland and Wales.

Drawing on themes with contemporary relevance including national identity, queer history, belief and spirituality, The World of King James VI & I is an enriching journey through the complex life of a king who changed the shape of the United Kingdom. Over 140 objects are on display, including ornate paintings, dazzling jewels, lavish designs and important loans from galleries across the UK, celebrating craft and visual art from the 16th and 17th centuries.

Come and be fully immersed in the sights of the period, connecting the people of the past with the people of today.

The World of King James VI & I

This film looks at the life and legacy of King James VI & I, examining some of the distinctive features of his character and reign. Traditional histories of James’s reign have not been kind to him, he was often portrayed as a superstitious and weak King, heavily dependent on his favourites, enjoying and indulgent and costly lifestyle.

https://www.nationalgalleries.org/exhibition/world-king-james-vi-and-