Must-see collection items at Dyrham Park

Flemish triptych

Although not currently on display, one of Dyrham Park’s most prized possessions is a Flemish triptych (a panel painting divided into three sections). The biblical scenes, believed to have been painted in oil by Jan van Doornik, date from around 1530.

Originating from Antwerp, the painting shows The Adoration of the Magi in the largest central panel, Nativity by Night with Shepherds on the left wing, and The Flight into Egypt on the right wing.

There are records of the painting at Dyrham Park dating back to 1710. The painting was located in St Peter’s Church on the estate, where a copy still remains.

‘This beautiful painting is full of rich colours, expression and life, and it’s incredible to think it’s coming up to 500 years old. We have a fine collection of art at Dyrham Park but this, for me, is the jewel in the crown and we are lucky to have it here with a copy in the church.’

- Eilidh Auckland, Property Curator

Floral vanitas

This floral painting (above) is a vanitas, a work of art that illustrates biblical teaching on the transience of life. The composition of fragile floral beauty set against decaying fruit, consuming creatures and encroaching weeds symbolises the fact that human life, however glorious, inevitably ends.

Painted by the Dutch artist Cornelis de Heem, it was probably bought by the owner William Blathwayt at the end of the 17th century. His education would've taught the skills needed to de-code this type of painting, and he would've understood the moral messaging behind the attractive scene.

Dyrham’s Delft pyramid vases

Pyramid vases – also known as flower pyramids – are ceramic vessels with individual sections for displaying cut flowers, especially tulips. They were particularly fashionable during the reign of William and Mary.

The pyramids consist of seven graduated tiers, with each tier acting as a receptacle of water for cut flowers. Flower stems are inserted through narrow spouts, modelled to resemble a serpent’s open jaw.

In the 17th century, these spouts would've been the perfect way to show off expensive ‘florist’ flowers. During this time, florists specialised in the cultivation of a select few plants, with tulips being the most prized of all.

In keeping with their 'Chinese' appearance, the vases resemble pagodas more than pyramids. Delft potters excelled in the art of combining stylistic elements from Europe and Asia to produce hybrid, contemporary designs, and the pyramid vase is an excellent example of this.

Entrance hall plaques

In the entrance hall at Dyrham Park are two framed Delftware plaques, a vision of China in blue and white. Dating from the late 17th century, the tiles show the Chinese countryside. In the foreground are large palm, banana and pineapple plants, around these are birds and a fox-like animal, while in the distance a small village with a pagoda and a mountain can be seen.