The State Rooms are the grandest rooms within the Castle and where many important gatherings have taken place throughout history.
Between the Drawing Room and Dining Room lies the Ante-Drawing Room which was mainly used as a thoroughfare or a waiting room. It boasts an incredible plasterwork ceiling and hidden gems which are one of the highlight of the Castle tour.
One of our exceptional guides, Judith, explains, “The purpose of this room in the 1670’s was a waiting room for those wishing to discuss important matters with the Duke”.
This room is perfectly symmetrical with matching marble topped chiffoniers and paintings of Dresden by Belotto. It is a bright and beautiful space with two large windows boasting views of the parkland in front of the Castle.
The exquisite ceilings within this space were created by George Dunsterfield and his team of Dutch craftsmen. It features intricate floral details, crowns and garlands created using a mixture of techniques, hand modelling and casting resulting in an incredible 3D-like quality.
The beautifully embellished doors and surrounds were carved by German carpenters and are replicas of ones in Ham House at the request of Elizabeth Murray, 2nd wife of The Duke. We encourage guests to take their time and explore all of the fine gold gilded details.
The door into the Drawing Room has been raised to allow a fuller view of the beautiful ceilings, chandeliers and mirrors when opened – all designed to impress (or intimidate) visitors or petitioners. Above the two side doors are bronze busts of ‘Draped Females’ and above the door to the Drawing Room is a marble one of a ‘Vestal Virgin’.
The two chairs within the windows were from the coronation of King George VI, identified by the unique Royal Cypher. Guests who attended the coronation were allowed to keep the chair as a souvenir of the important royal event.
See the Ante-Drawing Room and discover these unforgettable details in person on one of our Guided Tours, available until mid-October. Check tour availability and purchase your tickets in advance of your visit by clicking here.
