Guided Tour of the Wallace Collection – Wed Sep 18 2025

The Wallace Collection has the most amazing overflowing abundance of visual pleasures, with 750 works of art, ceramics and Louis XIV and XVI furniture.

The magnificent building is situated in Manchester Square and was bequeathed to the nation by Lady Wallace, Sir Richard’s widow in 1987 and is open to the public.

The collection was established by the first four Marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace, the likely illegitimate son of the 4^th Marquess.

On our tour which was presented by two wonderful guides, Andrew and Danuta, we discovered the many secrets and history behind many pieces on display.  I think we were all fascinated by the very personal collection of Marie Antoinette’s own writing desk and decorative furniture.  He made the pieces come to life.  One of our group said the guide “had made it so memorable and colourful that she would never forget his talk”.

Many paintings were specific to the taste of the 4^th Marquess who admired the French Baroque culture that flourished in France in the 17^th and 18^th centuries.

Our guide shared amusing stories about the famous painting of the Swing by Fragonard and the laughing Cavalier by Frans Hals and shared with our group the emotions attached to the self-portrait painting of Rembrandt and his son Titus.

Everyone was enthralled by our visit and there were many thanks and compliments about the experience.  Following this wonderful tour some members of the group stayed for refreshments in the conservatory restaurant.

Kind thanks have been sent to all involved in the Wallace Collection.