Windsor Castle is home to an extensive collection of furniture, showcasing a wide range of styles and periods. From the intricate miniatures of Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House to the grand, ornate pieces in the State Apartments, the furniture at Windsor Castle is a testament to the rich history and craftsmanship of the royal residence.
Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House
One of the most unique and captivating pieces of furniture at Windsor Castle is the Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House. This miniature masterpiece, designed by architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, features furniture and decorative items that reflect the finest craftsmanship of the early 20th century. The dolls’ house contains over 1,500 objects, including furniture, textiles, and other decorative items, all scaled down to fit the diminutive scale.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Style | The furniture in Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House is miniature and intricately crafted, reflecting the finest craftsmanship of the early 20th century. |
| Designers | The dolls’ house was designed by architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, with contributions from leading artists and craftsmen of the time. |
| Highlights | The house contains over 1,500 objects, including furniture, textiles, and other decorative items, all scaled down to fit the dolls’ house. |
State Apartments
The State Apartments at Windsor Castle are home to a stunning collection of furniture, primarily from the 18th and 19th centuries. These grand, ornate, and luxurious pieces were designed and crafted by renowned cabinet-makers and craftsmen, such as William Vile, John Cobb, and Benjamin Goodison.
The furniture in the State Apartments serves both functional and ceremonial purposes, with pieces like thrones, State beds, and ornate tables and chairs. The attention to detail and craftsmanship in these pieces is truly remarkable, reflecting the opulence and grandeur of the royal residence.
Restoration After the 1992 Fire
In 1992, a devastating fire swept through Windsor Castle, causing significant damage to the furniture and other historic artifacts. However, a massive restoration effort was undertaken to repair and recreate the damaged or destroyed pieces.
Notable pieces that were restored or recreated include those from the Green Drawing Room, which was part of George IV’s lavish refurbishment of Windsor Castle. The restoration process was a monumental undertaking, ensuring that the furniture collection at Windsor Castle remained intact and continued to showcase the rich history and craftsmanship of the royal residence.
Additional Details
The cost of the furniture and restoration efforts at Windsor Castle is not publicly disclosed, but it is likely to be substantial given the historical significance and craftsmanship involved. The furniture collection at Windsor Castle spans centuries, with pieces from the 17th to the 20th centuries.
The Royal Collection Trust provides detailed information on the furniture collection, including its history and significance. Windsor Castle is open to visitors, with specific hours and access depending on the time of year and royal events. Admission rates vary depending on the time of year and type of ticket.
The furniture collection at Windsor Castle is invaluable, both historically and culturally, and is considered one of the most important art collections in the world.
References
- Royal Collection Trust. (n.d.). Furniture. Retrieved from https://www.rct.uk/collection/about-the-collection/decorative-arts/furniture
- Royal Collection Trust. (n.d.). Furnishing Windsor Castle. Retrieved from https://www.rct.uk/collection/stories/furnishing-windsor-castle
- Royal Collection Shop. (n.d.). Windsor Castle Souvenirs. Retrieved from https://www.royalcollectionshop.co.uk/royal-residences/royal-residences/windsor-castle.html