Chiswick Celebrates Palladio
2008 marks the 500th anniversary of the birth of the Italian Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio (1508-1580). Palladio’s version of classical Roman architecture, based on mathematical proportions, became particularly influential through his publication 'The Four Books of Architecture' , which illustrated his own designs together with accurate reconstructions of ancient buildings.
Chiswick House and Marble Hill House in London are outstanding examples of the influence of Palladio’s book. Chiswick House was designed in 1725 by the third Earl of Burlington (1694-1753) for himself, drawing inspiration from his grand tours of Italy.
To celebrate Palladio’s 500th anniversary, you will be able to walk through the house and gardens with a specially produced trail guide, explaining the architectural and decorative details inspired by the antique and Palladian architecture.
On the first floor gallery, a beautiful space inspired by antique decoration and Palladian geometry, will be reopened after the winter following detailed paint research and be re-presented in its 18th-century paint colours.
Marble Hill House, set on the banks of the Thames, as Palladio’s villas are set on the bank of the Brenta, is more directly inspired by the private houses which Palladio designed for the Venetian aristocracy. Marble Hill was designed by Lord Burlington’s collaborator, Roger Morris, for Henrietta Howard, Countess of Suffolk and self guided tours of the architectural features will be available from our web site or collected on your visit to the House.
We are still finalising the details for these activities - but will post all information on www.english.heritage.org.uk/traveltrade - so check back for more news as they are confirmed!
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