Collection of Framed Wallpapers

Details

Date

1770s

Author / Artist

Unknown

Dimensions

Various

Material

Wallpaper

Catalogue number

SHPT.22

Current location

Japan Room

Collection of framed wallpaper, late 18th century, with substantial repairs: House portrait (of Avington Park), within ribbon-tied branches, 160cm x 90cm; chinoiserie design with twisted branches and songbirds, 178cm x 104cm; related design laurel branch with a parrot and other birds, 140cm x 125cm; four related designs amongst branches, 260cm x 65cm; four narrow designs with birds amongst branches 260cm by 32cm.

Avington House near Winchester, Hampshire was redesigned in the late 18th century by the courtier James Brydges, 3rd Duke of Chandos. The estate then descended to the duke’s only surviving daughter, Lady Anne Elizabeth Brydges (1779-1835), who married Richard Temple-Grenville, 1st Duke of Buckingham and Chandos.

It is conceivable that the wallpaper was commissioned for Stowe, the house portrait ‘panel’ – which is presented tromp l’oeil as though a framed painting – being a reminder of lady Anne’s family home and noble lineage. However, it is popssible that the paper hangings were removed from Avington House and re-hung at Stowe. The designs are consistent with the prevailing fashion of the 1770’s and 1780’s. At that time the 3rd Duke was improving the house, gardens and parkland at Avington.