Many previously unrevealed historical masterpieces featuring a Michelangelo creation will soon be displayed.
The Harley Foundation in Worksop, Nottinghamshire, plans to unveil the Portland Collection to the public at Welbeck Abbey.
The Cavendish family has amassed the collection over several centuries.
Among the treasures is an earring worn by King Charles I at the time of his execution in 1649.
The Welbeck Estate has been under the family’s ownership since the 17th century.
Harley Foundation Director Lisa Dee shared, “In this exhibition, we are presenting early Tudor and Jacobean portraits that have never been exhibited before, with some having never been on public display.”
The 1538 Michelangelo work, Madonna del Silenzio, will also be showcased.
This red chalk drawing is one of only a few pieces by the renowned Italian artist on exhibit throughout the UK.
“Worksop is one of just four locations in the entire UK that features a publicly displayed Michelangelo piece,” Dee said.
Visitors can also view the pearl earring King Charles I wore during his execution, which was retrieved from his severed head.
Dee’s favourite is a 1630s portrait of Rachel de Ruvigny, the former Countess of Southampton.
Additional highlights include an infrequently displayed portrait of Lady Margaret Stuart, Countess of Nottingham, by Paul van Somer. Dating back to around 1620, the painting portrays her in a lavish gown with a dramatically low neckline, signifying her power and status.
The exhibition is scheduled to run until December 2025 and offers free admission.
The exhibition at Welbeck Abbey aims to attract art enthusiasts and history buffs alike, offering a unique opportunity to explore these rare and significant pieces.
In addition to the artworks mentioned, the exhibition will showcase various items of historical interest, including manuscripts, letters, and personal belongings of the Cavendish family. These artifacts give visitors a deeper understanding of the family’s legacy and role in British history.
Educational programs and guided tours will be available throughout the exhibition’s run, catering to visitors of all ages. These programs will offer insights into the artistic techniques, historical context, and stories behind the displayed works.
Welbeck Abbey is a stunning location, steeped in history and providing the perfect backdrop for the exhibition. Visitors can explore the abbey’s beautiful gardens and grounds and enjoy refreshments at the on-site café.
The Harley Foundation’s decision to make the exhibition free of charge is expected to draw a diverse audience and encourage greater appreciation for the arts and history. The foundation also hopes to inspire future artists and historians by providing access to these rare masterpieces and artifacts.
As interest in the exhibition continues to grow, the Harley Foundation is planning various events and activities throughout the exhibition to engage the community further and provide additional learning opportunities.
The unveiling of these extraordinary historical treasures at the Welbeck Abbey exhibition is a testament to the importance of preserving and showcasing our shared cultural heritage. By making these pieces accessible to the public, the Harley Foundation aims to foster a greater appreciation for the arts and the stories they tell about our collective past.
