We're back in London with a visual treat today -- The Wallace Collection. I'd read about this but what really turned us on to it was a suggestion from the sales guy at the Steinway store. It was only a couple of blocks away (a good thing on a drizzly day) and he said it would be special. It was!
This elaborate collection was curated over time by several generations of the marquesses of Hertford and Richard Wallace, an illegitimate son. It contains an extraordinary amount of paintings, armor and arms, and decorative items.
The house itself was once the principal London residence of the Marqueses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace. It opened to the public in 1900.
The size and scope of the Wallace Collection was almost overwhelming. Miniatures and illuminations were under glass, protected by leather covers to be lifted by the viewer.
The
armor collection was extensive, including the largest selection of
antique weapons I've ever seen and several horse-mounted knights. I was
surprised to learn that the horse armor was not particularly heavy. This
set was from 1480 and a complete set of horse armor, which is
considered very rare.
My guess is that this armor (above) was unused as I couldn't find a single dent, hole, scratch or
ding. They also had a small Samurai collection.
But the largest portion of the museum was donated to the decorative arts -- furniture, china, decor . . .
And paintings.
I
was especially fond of this painting of Venice by Canaletto, but there were
several Rembrandts (including a beautiful portrait), Gainsborough paintings and
others.
And,
ironically, this one -- a modern painting which the artist based on a
Fragonard piece. (I could see little resemblance apart from the colors
and flowers, but I loved this!)
Rick described it this way: "Having a few hours to spare before our dinner date with some friends, we staggered through the Wallace Collection. I say staggered because I think we have run out of adrenaline -- we are dog tired. Built over the 18th and 19th centuries by the Marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace, it is one of the finest and most celebrated collections in the world. The Collection was given to the British Nation in 1897 by Lady Wallace.
It's admission: Priceless, and free to the public.
The building was the Wallace residence and my guess is that it was largely the same as their home as it is today. Having said that, however, a great deal of living space as been converted to display space. Very, VERY little of any wall is available for another even small paintings and the floor space features sculptures, display cases of smaller items, and a couple rooms feature a wide array of armor.
In all, I will bet we passed thousands of priceless pieces of
art. It was a MUCH greater concentration of works than ANY museum and
of the same or better quality."
Travel Tips:
- Museums -- many of them, including the Wallace Collection -- are free admission. That doesn't mean donations aren't welcome (there are VISA stands everywhere) but it also means you don't need a huge activity budget to enjoy beautiful art. Pay what you can.
- Check admission hours. Museums may be closed on certain days.
For previous posts, check out the England 2024 link on the menu tab above!
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