Dolphin chairs display at Ham House
Join us 1 March–11 May for a display of three Dolphin chairs, each in a different stage of conservation. Discover how conservators at Blickling and Knole approached treating these rare pieces from the 1670s.
- Booking not needed
- Free event (admission applies)
Visit Ham House this spring to see a display of three Dolphin chairs, each in a different stage of conservation: before, during conservation and after treatment.
Part of a set of 11 carved and gilded chairs with patterned silk covers, these pieces were commissioned by Elizabeth, Duchess of Lauderdale, during the enlargement of Ham House in the 1670s. Research suggests Jean Poictevin, a French craftsman working in Spitalfields at the time, made these impressive chairs – showing Elizabeth’s tastes were influenced by the French court.
The display will also explore how two National Trust conservation studios (the Royal Oak Foundation Conservation Studio at Knole and the Textile Conservation Studio at Blickling) are collaborating to conserve different aspects of the chairs.
Included with admission; no booking required. The house opening time is 12-4 (last entry 3.30).
Times
Prices
Event ticket prices
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
Check admission pricesThe basics
- Accessibility
Please note, this display is on the first floor of the house, which is accessed via stairs.
Upcoming events
From Bulb to Bloom: Paint a pot this February half-term
16, 18, 20, 22 February. Join a creative session this half-term Ham House and Garden, and paint a plant pot to take home. Drop-in sessions run between 10.30am – 12pm and 2pm – 3.30pm. Book on arrival, £5 per child, normal admission applies.
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Explore sketchbooks and more in this work-in-progress exhibition, the first event in our collaboration with creative researchers group The Storybox Collective
From Bulb to Bloom: Plant a seed this February half-term
15, 17, 19, 21, 23 February. Join us at Ham House and Garden for family fun this half-term with seed planting. Drop-in sessions run between 10.30am – 12pm and 2pm – 3.30pm. Book on arrival, £2 per child, normal admission applies.
Blossom at Ham House and Garden
We’re celebrating spring blossom at Ham House and Garden with activities and events from 20 March until 23 May.