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1 of 253523 objects
Decorative panels with military weapons c.1713-14
Oil on plaster | RCIN 408444
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In 1713 Louis Laguerre was commissioned to decorate the walls of the main hall and the two flanking staircases of Marlborough House, the London residence of the Duke and Duchess of Marlborough. The subject was to be the significant battles of the Spanish Wars of Succession (1701-14); led by the Duke of Marlborough, Britain and the Allies saw victories at Blenheim (1704), Ramillies (1706), Oudenard (1708) and, less decisively, Malplaquet (1709). The murals were to be 'the only signs of bravura or ornamentation in a house that was otherwise very plain and simple' (John Charlton, Marlborough House, 1978). Laguerre was paid £500 for them. The murals have had a chequered conservation history and parts have been almost entirely repainted.
The main central hall (Blenheim Saloon) is decorated with the events of the Battle of Blenheim, 1704 (RCINs 408442, 408443, 408445). The window wall is painted with panels showing military equipment (RCIN 408444).
Provenance
Commissioned by the 1st Duke and Duchess of Marlborough
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Creator(s)
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Medium and techniques
Oil on plaster
Category
Object type(s)