London & Partners

Step inside royal residences and houses that belonged to famed artists, dukes, dignitaries
and literary legends, where the interiors tell tales of times gone by.
By Sasha Wood & Kasha Van Sant
OOZING OPULENCE
The Wallace Collection
(p. 58)is the ideal place to see
art by the Old Masters within the
magnificence of a historic London
townhouse. Until 13 Jan Journeys
East: A Discovery Of Hidden
Treasures reveals artworks by
individuals across London inspired
by the resident Dutch masterpieces
of Rembrandt and Netscher. The
influence of the Dutch East India
Company on the South Asian
countries, both past and present,
comes to vivid life as themes such as
‘Spice’ and ‘Treasures’ are explored.
The 17th-century treasure trove
Ham House (p. 28, pictured above)
is a rare jewel where Elizabeth
Murray, Countess of Dysart’s vision
lives on. Having witnessed the
ravages of the English Civil War, the
home is now a dignified presence on
the banks of the River
Thames in Richmond.
Highlights include
intricate furnishings
and lacquerware, as
well as paintings and
miniatures that capture
the heart of this
historic residence.
Fine paintings,
ceramics, needlework,
and beautiful London
vistas are the key to
Fenton House’s (p.
The Wallace Collection
26) success. The 17th-century
merchant’s home is a hidden gem
with its exquisite walled garden,
chiselled balconies and orchard.
16
| visitlondon.com|LONDON PLANNER|January 2013