For the series finale, I visit Inveraray Castle and discover its incredible, hand-painted State Dining Room.
In the late 18th Century, the fifth Duke of Argyll, keen to impress his guests with the latest Georgian fashions, decided to remodel some of the castle’s 80 rooms in a more decorative style.
The elaborate State Dining Room was hand-painted by two French artists who were resident at Inveraray during the works. They used their skills to create flat relief paintings, simulating a 3D look. The colours are still very vibrant to this day.
The current Duke and Duchess use the room frequently, most recently for the celebration of the confirmation of their eldest son. Every few years, the original Waterford Crystal chandelier is dismantled and cleaned by the Duchess herself.
Watch the final episode of An American Aristocrat’s Guide to Great Estates on The Smithsonian Channel, Tuesday from 8pm.
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