THE COUNTRY HOUSES OF YORKSHIRE

Yorkshire is the largest county in Great Britain and contains within its boundaries some of the greatest houses in the British Isles. Not only for their architecture are these places well known but also because of their settings and most of all their contents. Not least of these is Newby Hall standing on the banks of the River Ure surrounded by its celebrated gardens and containing within its walls not only an unsurpassed collection of classical sculpture but also a unique room furnished with Gobelins tapestries. Of an earlier date is Burton Agnes, attributed to the famous Elizabethan architect Robert Smythson. This house with its unique fireplace in the Great Hall, contains in its Long Gallery an unrivalled collection of Impressionist paintings which form a dramatic contrast with their vibrant colours to the 16th century room in which they are housed. These, and other houses such as Harewood, Castle Howard, and Brodsworth, comprise some of the great houses of the county. These houses span the period from the 16th to the 19th century, when the region was in the forefront of events and enjoyed a thriving social and business life. A brief look to give some idea of the variety of houses in the county, stonebuilt, brick-built, or country retreat, along with those created by aristocratic wealth or ‘new’ money in the 19th century.

Nicholas Merchants career has mirrored his abiding interest in antiques. He has worked for some of the major auction houses in London as well as running his own book business devoted to the decorative and fine arts. His particular interest is English 18th century furniture and country houses; he enjoys discussing objects, particularly in their historical context. He lectures extensively in the USA, South Africa, Europe and UK, including the V&A, as well as for the principal cruise lines. Former Chairman of the West Yorkshire Art Fund. He arranges specialist short breaks for collectors and a range of prestigious clients including groups of The Arts Society who enjoy visiting the treasures of the UK.