In 1617 William Cavendish, who was to become the First Duke of Newcastle, inherited Bolsover Castle from his father Charles.
Charles died in the middle of creating the Little Castle, a mock Norman keep intended to act as a retreat from the family seat at Welbeck a few miles away. William continued work on the site, completing a range of luxurious interiors depicting life from earthly pursuits to heavenly wonders.
William employed architect Robert Smythson, who was also responsible for the design of William's later home, Hardwick Hall, and Longleat House, now home of the Marquis of Bath.
Bolsover's Little Castle was the perfect place to hold lavish parties and to impress visitors with its exquisite detail. Elaborately carved fireplaces, Italian-inspired stonework and richly decorated panelling combined to show off the host's taste and fortune.
Guests entered through a Gothic doorway and into an ante room which was decorated with brightly painted panels.
Banquets and dinner parties were held in the Pillar Parlour, which gets its name from a central pillar formed by its arched ceiling. The panelling is decorated with faux graining and gilding, and at the focus of each arch the panels contain a painted illustration of one of the five senses.
The grand hall is decorated with paintings that depict the labours of Hercules.
They are designed to create an illusion of additional space because they incorporate pictures of the ceiling vaulting.
Excellent shots and write-up. We visited recently too - haven't got round to sorting out an article yet. Bolsover's a great place. Wonderful vistas through the ruins, amazing equestrian block. The decoration, which you show here, surprised me - really interesting place.
ReplyDeleteNever even heard of this place before, thanks for the trip.
ReplyDeleteWe visited Bolsover many years ago on a very cold rainy April day. I still remember the beauty of the star chamber. Thanks for the reminder. B x
ReplyDeleteThe Little Castle interior is wonderful isn't it? I lived nearby as a child and teenager and we used to go into the grounds and ruins often, it wasn't English Heritage then, but the keep was always closed. It was wonderful to finally see inside it many years later:)
ReplyDeleteInteresting post, I like to visit castles ! We have quite a lot in Belgium too !
ReplyDeleteBeautiful photos
ReplyDeleteThe Pillar hall decorations are stunning.
Would I ever love going through this...but, I can thank YOU for taking us on a wonderful tour. Great photos.
ReplyDeleteOutstanding post!
ReplyDeleteLiked this fantastic castle.
Wonderfully captured.
You are doing amazing job here
How marvelous, a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. I love the pillar parlour.
ReplyDeleteDiana