Blickling Hall, a Jacobean gem nestled within the National Trust's portfolio, is a place that captivates and beckons visitors to return time and again. At its heart lies a treasure trove of knowledge: a library housing an impressive 12,500 books, a testament to the scholarly pursuits of its past owners.
The Evolution of a Library
The core of this collection was amassed by Sir Richard Ellys, a true scholar and bibliophile. Upon his passing, the collection passed through the hands of the Hobart family, growing further with the additions of Lady Caroline Suffield, Lady Constance Talbot, and Sir Philip Kerr, the 11th Marquess of Lothian. It was Lord Lothian who ultimately bequeathed Blickling Hall and its contents to the National Trust in 1940, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
A Library's Journey
On a hot June day, I had the pleasure of visiting Blickling to meet Rebecca Feakes, the Property Librarian. Rebecca shared insights into the library's role in the current 'Journeys' exhibition, which showcases textiles from the Karan Thakar collection. The exhibition explores Blickling's global connections, highlighting the countries associated with the hall and the items brought back from these journeys.
Treasures on Display
Seven magnificent books from the collection are currently on display, offering a glimpse into the hall's rich history. One such treasure is 'Recollections of India' (1847) by Charles Stewart Hardinge, a private secretary to his father during the First Anglo-Sikh War. The lithotints by James Duffield Harding capture a serene and tranquil India, reflecting a colonial ideal of ownership and power.
Another exquisite piece is 'Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji' (1852-1858) by Hiroshige, a master of ukiyo-e art. This collection showcases Mount Fuji from various perspectives and seasons, with a focus on daily life and the changing environment. The gradation of colors gives the images a soft, peaceful tone.
One of the most striking exhibits is 'Icones ipsis palntis' (c. 1600) by Fablo Colonna, a leading Italian botanist. Colonna's meticulous studies of plants and their medicinal uses are enhanced by his pioneering 'nature printing' technique, where he pressed inked leaves onto paper, creating accurate representations.
The Golden Age of Cartography
My personal favorite among the exhibits is the 'Grand Atlas' (1663) by Joan Blaeu, a renowned Dutch mapmaker. This French version, with its twelve volumes and over 600 color plates, is a testament to the Golden Age of Cartography. The rivalry among mapmakers of the 16th and 17th centuries, driven by maritime success and scientific advancements, resulted in some of the most accurate and beautiful maps of their time.
Sharing the Collection
Beyond the seven books on display, visitors can attend specialist book tours, offering a closer look at an additional twelve volumes from the collection. Rebecca emphasizes the importance of sharing these treasures with the public, allowing them to appreciate the beauty and significance of these books.
A Library's Legacy
The 'Journeys' exhibition not only showcases the library's global connections but also highlights the role of books as the building blocks of civilizations. It is a reminder of the power of knowledge and the enlightened minds that have shaped our world. As Ann Boleyn's ghost returns to Blickling each year, perhaps it is her love for books that draws her back to wander the Long Gallery, forever immersed in the written word.
This library, with its rich history and diverse collection, is a testament to the enduring impact of knowledge and the power of books to transport us across time and space.
