Page 168 - cn-The Art of Style Status STUDIO pres April 2024

The focused room setting within this particular part of the private sitting room forms a
unique composition that relates not only the associative elements of what is an intimate
family space, but also captures the expanse of the outer parkland beyond the terrace
glimpsed through the open French door.

The painting can be interpreted as an allegorical portrayal of Emma the present
Duchess and Her Grace’s role and journey as Chatelaine.
The near table stacked with family photo albums and framed photographs placed on the
piano represents Her Grace’s family history. A statement of homeliness and care for the
special ambiance is made by the placement of the table flower arrangement.
The piano alludes to Her Grace’s life when studying music and training to be an opera
singer. The piano stool is set askew without any particular direction.
This symbolic element represents the pull of family commitment and position, as the
piano stool forms a central point in the painting and could be interpreted as a visual
metaphor for the life as Chatelaine in running the estate.
For Her Grace a great source of inspiration has been the life of Elizabeth 5th Duchess
who created the present castle through her vision and determination. This is depicted
and caught by the reflected painting of Elizabeth riding her grey mare on the estate
with the castle and lakes beyond. The majority of the painting was painted in the early
1820’s, during her lifetime, by George Sanders. After her death the artist returned and

FG 139854

‘The Private Drawing Room’
Canvas: 48x60 inches