Spectacular comes to mind
while viewing the High Fashioned Victorian Formal Parlour in Saint Louis.
Walking into this room took my breath away as did all the items
that were positioned in this State of the Art Victorian CHARMER.
Was it pocket change?
Fact or fiction...
Mr. Robert Campbell handed Mrs. Campbell a check
in the amount of $50,000.00 when she went furniture shopping.
$50K
Believe it to be true since the Docent shared
this tid-bit of information.
In my opinion, all that worked to make this museum a reality
certainly did a supreme job.
Photos circa 1885 were recovered and show first hand how the rooms were arranged.
At present, the Formal Parlour looks gorgeous.
The Artist is unknown who painted posthumously Mrs. Robert Campbell circa 1885.
The Parlour painting is a genuine oil portrait of Virginia Campbell
which hangs above a square rosewood piano that Mary Todd Lincoln liked so much
she purchased one just like it.
The Parlour painting is a genuine oil portrait of Virginia Campbell
which hangs above a square rosewood piano that Mary Todd Lincoln liked so much
she purchased one just like it.
~Antique Rose-carved American Bois-de-rose "Square" Piano~
From Selkirk’s Catalog: "Antique Rose-Carved American Bois-d-Rose "Square" Piano; Schomacker & Co., Philadelphia; {16}; Long rectangular top with hinged frontal panel. The wide frieze, between pearled borders, as likewise the knees of cabriole legs, are magnificently carved with rose blossoms and other flower forms within acanthus scrolls. Voluted French feet are superimposed with acanthus leafage. Length 7 feet."
~Virginia Kyle Campbell~
Jan. 25, 1822 - Jan. 30, 1882
One of Virginia Campbell's many beautiful dresses was on display in the Formal Parlour.
I believe this 1876 one piece deep blue silk damask Reception Dress with silk fringe
is the dress in the portrait painting.
I believe this 1876 one piece deep blue silk damask Reception Dress with silk fringe
is the dress in the portrait painting.
Our Tour Guide Dennis demonstrated that the piano does work
and energetically played a tune.
The lovely foot stools were embroidered by Virginia.
GILDED AGE Opulence.
Walking into this room was an experience
I'm recalling from memory and my photos cause pause.
http://www.campbellhousemuseum.org/
I'd love to return and see it all again.
Next, the Morning Room.
d
