Colour and pattern for the paint and textile decoration dominated the decision-making process in the restoration of the Saloon at the Royal Pavilion to its once sumptuous scheme of 1823, created for George IV by the elusive designer, Robert Jones.
Based on archival documentation, this talk will concentrate on how the various elements intrinsic to the unity of the interior were recreated and applied. These items included the individually hand-painted and silvered leaf and flower motifs of the wall decoration, the gilded surfaces (gold and silver), the ‘very superb carpet’ with its ‘unusual and intricate design’ originally created in 26 colours, and ‘His Majesty’s Geranium and Gold-Coloured Colour Silk used for all furnishings.
Researching the correct colours proved paramount to the success of this astonishing room, which was awarded the 2019 Georgian Group Architectural Award for the Restoration of a Georgian Interior following its completion.
Annabel Westman FSA
