Broadlands

The Dining room

Three magnificent Van Dycks bought by Lady Louis Mountbatten's grandfather, Sir Ernest Cassel, hang in the Dining Room. The life-size portraits of Charles I and Henrietta Maria instantly strike the eye and 'Madame Vinck' is notable for its sumptuous detail.

The room was designed by Henry Holland in 1788, and his drawing for the elegant ceiling, with its oval wreath in the centre, still survives. The gold-painted radiator grilles were designed by Rex Whistler in 1935 for the Mountbattens' London house.

The 18th century mahogany sideboard and its flanking pedestals were made for the alcove. Probably designed by Henry Holland who was responsible for the designs of theWedgwood Room and the Library

The portrait of Emma, Lady Hamilton by Sir Thomas Lawrence was painted on a late 17th century canvas with a garland of flowers by J.-B. Monnoyer, a gift to the 2nd Lord Palmerston from Sir Joshua Reynolds. Lord Palmerston was also responsible for commisioning John Rose to design the intricate plasterwork in the Saloon.