The Lunar Society History Talk took place on Thursday 20 February 2014 at The University of Birmingham. This year’s speaker was Lucy Bamford, Keeper of Art at Derby Museum who lectured on the life and work of the artist Joseph Wright of Derby. [caption id="attachment_7686" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Peter Mayer Dipali Chandra, Lucy Bamford, and Sally Hoban welcoming guests at The Lunar Society lecture[/caption] The launch of the Lunar Society Trail - the Guide to 18th Century Birmingham - City Centre Walk  coincided with the History Lecture on Joseph Wright which was highly appropriate. Although not an official member of the Lunar Society, Wright is regarded as the greatest portrayer of the age of British Enlightenment, especially through his depictions of scientific experiments and industrial processes. He shared many of the Lunar Society’s views and interests, was a friend of Darwin and Whitehurst and painted the portraits of a number of the group’s members. [caption id="attachment_7688" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Joseph Wright - The Philosopher's Painter[/caption] Assay Office Birmingham was delighted to support the event and contribute to the launch of the Lunar Society Guide to 18th Century Birminghan City Centre trail. Supporters of the Lunar Society and the History West Midlands group were very interested in the group and general public silver visits which the Assay Office organises on a regular basis. Several lecture attendees signed up for a future visit to the Assay Office during the evening for which we are most appreciative. Following Lucy's fascinating lecture the Lunar Society launched its trail guide. For more information on the Guide to 18th Century Birmingham visit www.lunarsociety.org.uk  The Lunar Trail will be available in a free, colour leaflet format from Birmingham Welcome Centres and other heritage attractions across the city.  

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