William Horden

Henry Peacham, born in 1578 and active until at least 1644, was an English writer and poet. He was the son of a clergyman and a graduate of Trinity College, Cambridge. Peacham worked as a schoolmaster at Kimbolton Grammar School starting in 1603.

He is primarily recognized today for his 1622 publication, The Compleat Gentleman. This work serves as a guide for well-born young men, outlining the subjects they should study to achieve a comprehensive education. Peacham's book covers various disciplines including literature, poetry, music, philosophy, and art. Due to its extensive references to contemporary artists, The Compleat Gentleman is frequently consulted as a primary source for research on Renaissance artists.

In addition to The Compleat Gentleman, Peacham also published a collection of printed emblems titled Minerva Britanna in 1612. This work was based on a manuscript believed to have been presented to Prince Henry Frederick in 1610.

Published in 1622, The Compleat Gentleman is Henry Peacham's most recognized work. It functions as a manual for young men of privilege, detailing the curriculum necessary for a well-rounded education. Peacham advises on the literary figures, poets, composers, philosophers, and artists that gentlemen should engage with. The book's value is further enhanced by its inclusion of numerous contemporary artistic figures, making it a significant resource for scholars studying Renaissance art. A passage from the work specifically praises composers like Ludovico de Victoria and Orlando di Lasso, highlighting their skills and contributions to music.

In 1612, Henry Peacham released Minerva Britanna, a book featuring printed emblems. This collection was reportedly derived from a manuscript that was thought to have been given to Henry Frederick, Prince of Wales, in 1610. While The Compleat Gentleman is his most famous work, Peacham also authored other texts. One such work, The Worth of a Penny, was published posthumously in 1664, offering advice on financial prudence.

“For composition, I prefer next Ludovico de Victoria, a most judicious and a sweet composer: after him Orlando di Lasso, a very rare and excellent Author, who lived some forty years since in the court of the Duke of Bavier.”