For our inaugural exhibition stand at the Battersea Winter Fair 2024, we took inspiration from the the rich collection of decorative art and objects at Dyrham House (a National Trust property).
It was William Blathwayt (c.1649-1717) who transformed Dyrham House from a Tudor manor into the baroque mansion it is today. Blathwayt’s position and connection as Secretary at War to William of Orange allowed him access to luxurious materials such porcelain, Carrara marble, exotic timber, silks and objects from around the world.
The decorative contents of Dyrham have a strong Dutch influence which include gilt leather wall panels, delft porcelain, paintings by by Samuel van Hoogstraten and Melchior de Hondecoeter.
One of the wallpapers featured on our stand is the “Birdsong” Wallpaper. Part of our Aviary I Collection; this wallpaper draws inspiration from the bold paintings by the 17th-century, Dutch artist Melchior de Hondecoeter.
Some photos of our exhibition stand which featured a curated selection of period furniture, decorative antiques and objects alongside our wallpapers.
- A Japanese export black and gilt cabinet (a similar and earlier Chinoiserie model can be seen at Dyrham Park).
- An original Queen Anne oak bureau bookcase with late 19th century Japanned Chinoiserie style decorations.
- A William IV daybed/settee.
- A Regency period Bookcase.
- A 19th century, monumental French earthernware/porcelain vase by E. Collinot.
- A garniture of Continental porcelain baluster vases and a beaker vase.
