Chatsworth

The Library

A Picture of the 'Library'

Originally this room was the 1st Duke's Long Gallery. The ceiling of gilded stucco by Edward Goudge, with paintings by Verrio, survives from this time and its design is reflected in Axminster carpet which was woven when the room was altered.

In 1815 the 6th Duke fitted the room out as a library. He bought several complete collections of books to add to the many he inherited and he and Wyatville designed the present gallery and bookcases to receive them, c. 1830. There are over 17,000 volumes in here and in the Ante-Library.

In 1983 the paintwork and gilding of the Library were restored. The sofas and chairs were at Devonshire House and the cut-velvet curtains were hung c. 1830.

The sofas and chairs were at Devonshire House and the cut velvet curtains were hung c.1830. The portrait on an easel of Henry VIII, after an original by Holbein, dates from the 16th century.