THE WADDESDON MASTERCLASS: The Arts of France

Waddesdon Manor was built in the late 19th century by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild as a country retreat in which to hold his famous weekend house parties. He furnished it with treasures worthy of the world's finest museums and was happiest, according to one visitor, when showing them to his friends. Rooms, furnished with renowned examples of French 18th-century furniture, Sévres porcelain and Savonnerie carpets are hung with masterpieces by Reynolds and Gainsborough and paintings of the Dutch Golden Age. The Renaissance character of the Bachelors' Wing, echoing the exterior architecture, sets the tone for decorative arts of the 16th and 17th centuries.

We invite you to come and re-live this unique cultural and social experience today, sleeping and dining at the Manor and exploring the rich variety of the collection with our expert curators. The small, exclusive nature of the group gives unprecedented access to the works of art. After an initial introduction to the house and its highlights, the flexible format allows guests the choice of exploring any of the famous or even the lesser known aspects of the collection, under the guidance of one of the curators.


This event has SOLD OUT for 2008, if you are interested in a 2009 masterclass please contact Kim Hallett, tel: 01296 653240 or email: Kim.Hallett@nationaltrust.org.uk