Victorian inspired exhibition to be held at Blenheim Palace

A new exhibition showcasing what is described as some of the finest examples of Victorian art will go on display at Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire, from 10th February to 16th April.

The new exhibition, Victorian Passions and Pursuits, depicts the development of art throughout the 19th century with works by J.M.W. Turner, Edward Burne-Jones, Dante Gabriel Rossetti, James McNeill Whistler, Richard Dadd and Aubrey Beardsley.

Drawn from the internationally acclaimed Cecil Higgins Art Gallery Collection, it demonstrates how wildly differing styles ranging from the older traditional artists to the Aesthetes, the Pre-Raphaelites to the Decadents and the Social Satirists to the Exquisites, all grew and flourished alongside one another.

The exhibition will also incorporate a series of ‘never-before-seen’ botanical watercolours by Lady Susan Stewart, the 5th Duchess of Marlborough.

Alongside the artworks, Blenheim Palace is returning several of its State Rooms to the way they would have looked during Queen Victoria's reign.

Utilising early images of the palace taken by the renowned Oxford photographer Henry Taunt, the Great Hall, Saloon and Second State Room will all be given a Victorian makeover.

To complete the theme there will also be a display in the Library highlighting the filming of Young Victoria which starred Emily Blunt at Blenheim Palace and featuring images, costume and a selection of props used in the film.

Group information

Group talks and tours are available around the palace and gardens. Topics that can be covered include: Hatches, Matches and Dispatches, which is new; Restoration and Conservation; Paintings & Portraits; Capability Brown: Visionary or Vandal?; and Running a Great Estate, among others.

Groups visiting can also enjoy a light bite, a three-course lunch or afternoon tea, as well as catering in a private room. Catering must be booked in advance for groups.

Group organisers wanting to book at visit to Blenheim Palace with their group, can e-mail groups@blenheimpalace.com for more details. Tickets will allow admission to the palace, park and gardens.

For more information, visit blenheimpalace.com.