January 14th: Today's Feature

January

John Blanke, also known as Blancke or Blak, was a talented musician from Africa who resided in London during the early Tudor era. It is believed that he arrived in England as part of Catherine of Aragon's entourage in 1501. Notably, he is among the earliest documented black individuals in the United Kingdom since the time of the Romans. Interestingly, his name could be a reference to his skin colour, possibly derived from the word "black" or even the French term "blanc," which interestingly means white.

Background

Very little is known about the life of John Blanke, but what we do know is quite fascinating. He was a talented trumpeter who served under King Henry VII and later petitioned for a wage increase from 8 pence to 16 pence. His skills were highly valued, as he was paid 8 pence per day by the king himself. This may not seem like much by today's standards, but back then, it was a respectable sum.

Thanks to a surviving document from the accounts of the Treasurer of the Chamber, we have some insight into Blanke's wages. In December 1507, he received a payment of 20 shillings, and this continued monthly throughout the following year. His annual wage of £12 was quite impressive, considering that it was twice the amount earned by a farm laborer and three times that of a servant. Clearly, Blanke's talent as a trumpeter was highly valued by the royal court.

The connection between John Blanke and the black man depicted in the 1511 Westminster Tournament Roll was first proposed by historian Sydney Anglo. This illuminated manuscript, now held by the College of Arms, recorded the grand tournament held in February 1511 to celebrate the birth of Henry, Duke of Cornwall. In the roll, Blanke is depicted twice as one of the six trumpeters on horseback in the royal retinue.

While all the trumpeters wore yellow and grey livery and carried trumpets adorned with the royal arms, Blanke stood out with his distinctive brown and yellow turban. He also appeared in the roll wearing a green and gold head covering. These depictions provide a rare visual glimpse into the life and appearance of John Blanke, a talented musician who left his mark on the royal court.

Other Renaissance cities also had their fair share of talented black trumpeters and drummers. For instance, in the bustling city of Naples in 1470, a skilled trumpeter was appointed to play on the royal ship Barcha. His soulful melodies echoed across the vast seas, captivating all who heard them. The trumpeter's mastery of his instrument was truly awe-inspiring, and his presence added a touch of grandeur to the royal vessel.

Moving forward in time to 1555, we find ourselves in the magnificent court of Cosimo I de' Medici, the esteemed Grand Duke of Tuscany. Among the many musicians in his employ, there was a remarkable trumpeter who had an extraordinary story. This talented individual had once been a galley slave, but his exceptional musical abilities caught the attention of the Grand Duke. Recognising his talent, Cosimo I freed the trumpeter and welcomed him into his court, where he continued to mesmerise audiences with his enchanting melodies.

Even in the far reaches of Edinburgh, the vibrant capital of Scotland, black drummers found their place in the court of King James IV during the Renaissance era. These skilled musicians added a unique rhythm and energy to the royal gatherings, their beats resonating through the halls of the grand palace. Their presence not only entertained the king and his courtiers but also showcased the diverse talents and cultural influences that thrived during this period. The black drummers brought a touch of exoticism to the Scottish court, leaving a lasting impression on all who witnessed their captivating performances.

Blanke's contributions to British history and culture have been recognised and celebrated in various ways. In 2020, he was honoured as one of the 100 Great Black Britons who have played a significant role in shaping the nation. This recognition came in the form of a book titled "100 Great Black Britons" by Patrick Vernon, where Blanke's story was featured alongside other influential figures. It is a testament to his impact and influence on British society.

Akala, a renowned British rapper and novelist, drew inspiration from Blanke's life for his book "The Dark Lady," which was published in 2021. Akala created a character based on Blanke, showcasing the significance of his story and the lasting impression it has left on contemporary artists and writers. By incorporating Blanke into his work, Akala pays homage to the historical figure and ensures that his legacy continues to resonate with a new generation.

Blanke's legacy was further immortalised in January 2022 when a Nubian Jak Community Trust blue plaque was installed in his honour. This plaque was placed at King Charles Court, which is home to the Faculty of Music at the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich, London. The installation of the plaque serves as a permanent reminder of Blanke's contributions to the field of music and dance, as well as his overall impact on British history. It is a fitting tribute to a man who has left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of the country.

In May 2022, an exhibition titled "The Tudors: Passion, Power and Politics" showcased two portraits of Blanke on the Westminster Tournament Roll at the Walker Art Gallery in Liverpool. This exhibition marked the first time in 20 years that these portraits were displayed in public, and it was also the first time the document was shown outside of London. The inclusion of Blanke's portraits in such a prestigious exhibition highlights his significance within the Tudor era and his place in British history. It allows a wider audience to appreciate and learn about his story, further cementing his importance in the collective memory of the nation.

The John Blanke Project, founded and directed by Michael Ohajuru, is an art and archive initiative dedicated to celebrating Blanke's life and legacy. This project aims to preserve and promote the images and stories associated with Blanke, ensuring that his contributions are not forgotten. The significance of the project was recognised when it was featured in a Sky Arts presentation on July 11, 2023