Chatsworth

Chatsworth, in Derbyshire, is one of the most palatial of English country houses and is probably unrivalled for the quality of its collections of paintings and furniture. The site was formerly occupied by an Elizabethan house constructed by Bess of Hardwick. Modernized in the 17th century, the old house was demolished by William Cavendish, 1st Duke of Devonshire: the present Chatsworth was built for him between 1685 and 1707. The duke’s first architect was William Talman, whose south front was revolutionary for its thoroughgoing Classicism. The west front, begun in 1700, is more French in inspiration—it has been provisionally attributed to Thomas Archer, a master of the Baroque style.

The interiors of Chatsworth impress with the richness and consistency of their decoration. The ceilings of the state rooms were painted by Antonio Verrio, Louis Laguerre, and Sir James Thornhill. The latter’s work in the entrance hall, west staircase, and Sabine room represents one of the greatest achievements of the English Baroque. The gardens and park at Chatsworth were transformed by the 4th Duke into an outstanding picturesque landscape and substantial additions to the house and gardens were also made by the 6th (or “Bachelor”) Duke between 1811 and 1858—garden buildings were designed by Joseph Paxton, architect of the Crystal Palace. Chatsworth remains the seat of the present Duke of Devonshire.