Timeless Elegance

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Set within expansive gardens and grounds, Donnington Castle House enjoys a secluded elevated position beside the historic medieval Donnington Castle, near Newbury, Berkshire. Built in 1648, the house retains a wealth of original architectural detail, including tall sash windows, panelled rooms, oak floors, decorative plasterwork, and bolection-moulded fireplaces, creating interiors of quiet grandeur and refined balance, which its previous owners spent thirteen years restoring.

^{The Selected Contents of Donnington Castle House | © Jon Stone Photography}

During the Second World War, the British government requisitioned the house to serve as quarters for personnel of the United States Army’s 101st Airborne Division, the famed ‘Screaming Eagles’. Later, under the ownership of the Parker-Bowles family, Donnington Castle House became a familiar retreat for Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother and Princess Margaret, who were frequent guests.

^{The Selected Contents of Donnington Castle House | © Jon Stone Photography}

Comprising almost 100 lots, the collection reflects a considered and highly decorative approach to furnishing a historic country house. Georgian and Regency-inspired furniture forms the backbone of the offering, including bookcases, sofa tables, commodes, and seating chosen for their scale, craftsmanship and practicality.

^{A large Persian Feraghan wool carpet, first half of the 20th century (£4,000-6,000)}

These are complemented by an array of mirrors, lighting and ornamental objects, in neoclassical and Louis XVI taste, lending elegance and visual rhythm throughout. Offered alongside paintings and sculpture, with works ranging from portraits and landscapes to still lifes and busts, the collection displays depth and narrative.

^{Constant-Joseph Brochart (French, 1816-1899), Shepherd and shepherdess (£4,000-6,000)}

Unified by atmosphere rather than strict period, it speaks to a confident eye and a desire to create interiors that feel both composed and lived-in. Together, the pieces offered here present an opportunity to acquire objects selected not only for their individual appeal but also for their ability to work in harmony within an exceptional historic house.

Tuesday 17 & Wednesday 18 March | 10am

fineinteriors@sworder.co.uk | 01279 817778

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