Unravelling the myth

Displays surrounding the theatrical installation deconstruct the story. They look critically at the creation of images and myths around the Order of the Golden Fleece, commented on with old - and contemporary art. We show how the order served as an instrument of power for the Burgundian duke Philip the Fair. The Burgundian state was a theatre state, in which power was manifested in public ceremonies and rituals. The duke used every means available to increase his authority. For example, the knights’ striking costumes, their red cloaks and gold chains, created a division between members and nonmembers. And Philip conferred additional status on the order by harking back to biblical stories and myths. In short, the duke used a range of elements, including motifs, narratives and costumes, to affirm his power. Therefore, the exhibition disentangles the political intrigues and plotting behind one of Europe’s earliest political alliances – described by some as the forerunner to the European Union.