PREVIOUSLY unseen portraits of the some of the key figures in the history of Chirk Castle are being put on display to the public.
These captivating artworks, which have never before been exhibited, show Lady Margaret Myddelton and Robert Myddelton-Biddulph, both prominent figures in the castle's history.
The paintings hold immense significance as they were gifted to National Trust Cymru by the late Lady Aird, daughter of Lady Margaret Myddelton.
The were due to be put on display for the first time on Friday (July 14).
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Karen George, Chirk Castle’s House and Collections Manager, said: “These acquisitions are a rare and significant addition to our collection.
“We’re thrilled that they have come home and that we can share this charming depiction of Lady Margaret with our visitors.”
Lady Margaret Myddelton, who resided in the castle from 1946 to 2003, and Robert Myddelton-Biddulph, who occupied the castle from 1801 to 1814, are depicted in these significant artworks.
Their portraits have been absent from the castle's state rooms until now.
The generous gift from Lady Aird and her family in 2021 has made the public display of these portraits possible.
In a touching accompanying video, Lady Aird's daughter shares the family's motivations behind the decision to return the artworks to Chirk Castle.
Visitors will have the opportunity to delve into the compelling story of Lady Margaret Myddelton, a key figure in the castle's history.
After marrying Colonel Ririd Myddelton in 1931, Lady Margaret played a vital role in restoring the castle, gardens, and estate alongside her husband.
Lady Margaret's stunning portrait, painted in 1931 by renowned society portraitist Glyn Philpot, captures her radiant beauty in a debutante dress.
Talking about the portrait of Lady Margaret, John Chu, Senior National Curator at National Trust describes the piece as “a real explosion of colour, with a blush of pink, the sea green chiffon and beautiful white silk dress”
The second portrait portrays Robert Myddelton-Biddulph, who adopted the name upon marrying Charlotte Myddelton in 1801.
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Attributed to Sir William Beechey, an esteemed portrait painter to the royal family, this 19th-century artwork depicts Robert with a warm and gentle gaze, as described by Caroline Allfrey, Lady Margaret's granddaughter.
The painting also features a vivid depiction of Chirk Castle in the background, with visible brushstrokes and thick paint portraying a stormy Welsh landscape.
Starting July 14, the portraits will be on display in the castle's dining room, a space that Lady Margaret herself played a part in designing.
Visitors can also enjoy a video featuring an interview with Caroline Allfrey, providing further insights into Lady Margaret's life.
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