Woburn Abbey

The Library and The Ante Library

Possibly the finest of the Holland designed rooms. It is divided into three parts by screens with fluted Corinthian columns. The majority of the books are on natural history; there are more books by Redoute and volumes on the flora and fauna of the Bedford Estates printed for the 6th Duke. Above the bookcases there is a wonderful collection of portraits, notably the Rembrandt self-portrait and the Old Rabbi by the same artist. Facing you as you enter and over the door into the Wood Library is a superb double portrait by Van Dyck, reputed to be Daniel Mytens and his wife; this was completely restored in 1981. More Van Dyck portraits can be found in the State Dining Room and on the Grand Staircase.

The chandelier is attributed to Henry Holland and there are four similar but smaller ones elsewhere; two of them are being completely restored, which will take two to three years. The Library is open from time to time by special arrangement.

The Ante Library

This room has hardly changed since the nineteenth century when it was a map-reading room, even the colours and style of the drapes are as they were in 1815. Three of the doorways are false. The library steps convert into an armchair.