Stafford Gallery: The Greatest Art Collection of Regency London

The book provides a detailed history of the Bridgewater collection, from its purchases in Rome in the 1750s to its reinstallation in the new Bridgewater House in 1851. It examines the personalities and motives of three generations of collectors and owners, and discusses the ways in which the collection was arranged and displayed. It also includes illustrations of works sold from the collection after 1946.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 24 October 2019
Publisher: Unicorn Publishing Group

The Bridgewater collection, a remarkable testament to art and history, has been meticulously documented in a new book that offers a comprehensive and captivating account of its evolution. Spanning several decades and multiple owners, this captivating story unfolds from the early acquisitions made by the 3rd Duke of Bridgewater in Rome in the 1750s, to the significant additions acquired during the 1790s, particularly from the Orleans collection. It then traces the integration of the collection into the Stafford Gallery by the 2nd Marquess of Stafford (1st Duke of Sutherland), followed by its reinstallation in the newly constructed Bridgewater House in 1851.

In addition to providing a detailed account of the collectors and owners who shaped the collection over three generations, the book delves into the intricate arrangements and displays that showcased these masterpieces. It also explores the diverse reactions to the collection from sophisticated critics like William Hazlitt to the general public, and analyzes key publications such as the four-volume illustrated catalogue by William Young Ottley in 1818.

The book's illustrations, which include many works sold from the collection after 1946 and now dispersed across various locations, provide a visual feast for art enthusiasts. These images not only showcase the remarkable pieces that once formed part of the Bridgewater collection but also offer a glimpse into the rich history and cultural significance of this extraordinary collection.

This comprehensive and engaging book is a must-read for anyone with an interest in art, history, and the captivating stories that lie behind the objects we cherish. It sheds light on the evolution of the Bridgewater collection, the individuals who contributed to its growth, and the impact it has had on the art world. By exploring the collection's history, arrangements, and reactions, this book provides a deeper understanding of the significance of art and the role it plays in shaping our cultural heritage.

Weight: 916g
Dimension: 243 x 166 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781916495753