The Ante Room

The most important item in this room is the early 16th century Brussels panel of Gothic tapestry woven in coloured silks and gold thread depicting the Day of the Pentecost and the Descent of The Holy Ghost. The virgin is seen as a central figure surrounded by Saints with the symbols of the four Evangelists at the corners. Also of note are a Louis XVI mahogany kneehole writing table, a Louis XV giltwood console table and one of a pair of William Kent giltwood marble topped console tables. Included amongst the porcelain are two Delft blue and white flasks and a collection of fine Chinese porcelain of the K'ang Hsi and Yung Ch'eng periods.

In the alcove above the porcelain is an amusing caricature study by Thomas Patch of an interior in Florence with the 3rd Duke of Roxburghe and his circle including the painter Zoffany.

The painting of two little girls depicts Lady Essex and Lady Mary Ker, daughters of the 2nd Duke, by Thomas Hudson.

Other paintings include the Hon. Caroline Gawler, daughter of the 3rd Lord Bellenden by Sir Joshua Reynolds, John Gawler also by Reynolds, a portrait of Lady Herbert by Sir William Beechey and a portrait of Sir Henry Innes of that Ilk, 5th Baronet, dressed in armour, in the style of Sir Godfrey Kneller.