The other day we had a look at St. James’s Square, in 1812 and now. Because I’d used Norfolk House in Don’t Tempt Me, I took advantage during my 2011 trip to London of an opportunity to photograph a part of it: the Music Room, whose panels and ceiling are on view at the Victorian and Albert Museum.
Though my pictures lack the professional polish of the V&A ones (I tried straightening, but things got fuzzy), they give you a better sense, I think, of the artistry and craftsmanship applied to these great London houses.
You’ll find another photo of the music room as it
looked when the house existed, here at British History Online. The Survey of London calls this room “the finest and most remarkable interior feature of Norfolk House.”This gives us an an idea of how dukes live(d), and of the surroundings we historical romance authors envision for our aristocratic heroes and heroines.
One of us -- 
6 comments:
I love this room. Everytime I'm in London, I make a special trip to go drool over it. Swoon.
I wonder why the house was torn down, perhaps the usual historic vandalism by developers?
The decor evokes Versailles and 18th Century French style, much beloved by the British aristocracy. Maybe the building was crumbling. At least they saved something for us to wonder over.
I had the pleasure of carrying out an analysis of the paint in this room and of advising the team on its repainting
Patrick, You must have one of the best jobs in the world!
I didn't visit the V&A when I was in London, (many years ago) but I did tour the British Museum and saw some beautiful rooms that had been removed for preservation. When I go again in the spring I'll have to visit this exhibition! Thank you for sharing. :)
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