20 Masterpieces at Mount Stuart: Paintings from the Bute Collection

The Bute Collection is a remarkable collection of fine and decorative arts, books, and archival material in Britain, assembled by the Crichton-Stuart family over three centuries. It includes Dutch Golden Age masterpieces and British 18th-century portraiture. Part of the collection can be seen at Mount Stuart, Isle of Bute, an architectural masterpiece. This book showcases some of the finest pictures in the collection and is the first in a series to celebrate the collection's rich cultural heritage.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 64 pages
Publication date: 12 October 2020
Publisher: Scala Arts & Heritage Publishers Ltd

The Bute Collection is a remarkable treasure trove of fine and decorative arts, books, and archival material, renowned for its exceptional holdings in the Dutch Golden Age and British 18th-century portraiture. Assembled over three centuries by the illustrious Crichton-Stuart family, the Earls and Marquesses of Bute, this extraordinary collection is now housed in the neo-gothic ancestral family seat of Mount Stuart, located on the Isle of Bute. This architectural masterpiece is itself a testament to the family's wealth and taste.

This splendidly illustrated book serves as an invaluable introduction to the remarkable paintings that comprise just a fraction of the Bute Collection. Within its pages, readers are treated to a glimpse of some of the finest artworks in the country, showcasing the immense artistic talent and craftsmanship of the era. It is the first installment in a series of publications dedicated to celebrating the diverse cultural heritage of Mount Stuart.

The Bute Collection boasts an impressive array of masterpieces, ranging from renowned Dutch Golden Age paintings to exquisite British 18th-century portraiture. The collection's origins can be traced back to the 17th century when John Stuart, the 1st Earl of Bute, began acquiring works of art. Over the centuries, his descendants continued to build upon this collection, acquiring pieces from renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Rubens, and Van Dyck.

The Bute Collection's holdings in the Dutch Golden Age are particularly noteworthy. These paintings depict the opulence and grandeur of the Dutch Republic during the 17th century, capturing the essence of the era's artistic achievements. Notable works include "The Night Watch" by Rembrandt van Rijn, a monumental painting that depicts a city guard on patrol, and "The Milkmaid" by Johannes Vermeer, a charming portrayal of a young woman milking a cow.

In contrast, the British 18th-century portraiture in the collection is equally impressive. These paintings showcase the elegance and sophistication of the period, capturing the likenesses of prominent figures such as King George III, Queen Charlotte, and William Pitt the Younger. The portraits are characterized by their attention to detail, realistic depictions, and the use of light and shadow to create a sense of depth and realism.

Beyond its artistic significance, the Bute Collection holds historical and cultural importance as well. It provides a window into the lives and times of the aristocracy and their social interactions during the 18th and 19th centuries. The collection also sheds light on the artistic and cultural trends of the time, showcasing the influence of different styles and movements on the development of art.

The Bute Collection is housed in the stunning Mount Stuart House, which was designed by the renowned architect Robert Adam. The house is a testament to the family's wealth and taste, with its grandiose architecture, intricate details, and luxurious interiors. The collection is spread across several rooms, each designed to showcase the paintings and artifacts in their best possible light.

In addition to the paintings, the Bute Collection also includes a vast collection of books, manuscripts, and other archival material. These items provide valuable insights into the family's history, interests, and cultural heritage. They include works by renowned authors such as William Shakespeare, John Milton, and Alexander Pope, as well as letters and diaries written by members of the Crichton-Stuart family.

The Bute Collection is not only a visual feast but also a cultural treasure trove. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and artistic achievements of the Dutch Golden Age and British 18th-century portraiture. The collection's holdings are a testament to the family's dedication to art and culture, and its preservation and display ensure that future generations can appreciate and enjoy these masterpieces.

In conclusion, the Bute Collection is a remarkable collection of fine and decorative arts, books, and archival material, renowned for its exceptional holdings in the Dutch Golden Age and British 18th-century portraiture. Assembled over three centuries by the illustrious Crichton-Stuart family, this extraordinary collection is now housed in the neo-gothic ancestral family seat of Mount Stuart, located on the Isle of Bute. This architectural masterpiece is itself a testament to the family's wealth and taste.

This splendidly illustrated book provides an excellent introduction to the paintings that form just one element of this outstanding collection, including some of the finest pictures in the nation, and is the first in a series planned to celebrate each aspect of Mount Stuart's rich cultural heritage.

The Bute Collection boasts an impressive array of masterpieces, ranging from renowned Dutch Golden Age paintings to exquisite British 18th-century portraiture. The collection's origins can be traced back to the 17th century when John Stuart, the 1st Earl of Bute, began acquiring works of art. Over the centuries, his descendants continued to build upon this collection, acquiring pieces from renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Rubens, and Van Dyck.

The Bute Collection's holdings in the Dutch Golden Age are particularly noteworthy. These paintings depict the opulence and grandeur of the Dutch Republic during the 17th century, capturing the essence of the era's artistic achievements. Notable works include "The Night Watch" by Rembrandt van Rijn, a monumental painting that depicts a city guard on patrol, and "The Milkmaid" by Johannes Vermeer, a charming portrayal of a young woman milking a cow.

In contrast, the British 18th-century portraiture in the collection is equally impressive. These paintings showcase the elegance and sophistication of the period, capturing the likeness of prominent figures such as King George III, Queen Charlotte, and William Pitt the Younger. The portraits are characterized by their attention to detail, realistic depictions, and the use of light and shadow to create a sense of depth and realism.

Beyond its artistic significance, the Bute Collection holds historical and cultural importance as well. It provides a window into the lives and times of the aristocracy and their social interactions during the 18th and 19th centuries. The collection also sheds light on the artistic and cultural trends of the time, showcasing the influence of different styles and movements on the development of art.

The Bute Collection is housed in the stunning Mount Stuart House, which was designed by the renowned architect Robert Adam. The house is a testament to the family's wealth and taste, with its grandiose architecture, intricate details, and luxurious interiors. The collection is spread across several rooms, each designed to showcase the paintings and artifacts in their best possible light.

In addition to the paintings, the Bute Collection also includes a vast collection of books, manuscripts, and other archival material. These items provide valuable insights into the family's history, interests, and cultural heritage. They include works by renowned authors such as William Shakespeare, John Milton, and Alexander Pope, as well as letters and diaries written by members of the Crichton-Stuart family.

The Bute Collection is not only a visual feast but also a cultural treasure trove. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and artistic achievements of the Dutch Golden Age and British 18th-century portraiture. The collection's holdings are a testament to the family's dedication to art and culture, and its preservation and display ensure that future generations can appreciate and enjoy these masterpieces.

Weight: 152g
Dimension: 135 x 190 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781785513046