The noble women
As well as fine tapestries Hardwick also has some of the finest early embroidery in the country, not least in the large scale set of embroideries known as ‘the noble women’. This is a set of four (originally five) hangings that all take their subject matter from worthy heroines and their virtues. These pieces were made by professional embroiderers while Bess lived at Chatsworth and are made out of a patchwork of pieces of velvet, cloth of gold and figured silk, part cut out of medieval church vestments. We're undertaking a long-term conservation project to conserve these pieces; the first two back from conservation, Penelope with her associated virtues of Perseverance and Patience, and Lucretia are on display on the Ground Floor of the house.
More than just textiles
While Hardwick is known for its textile collection there are other parts of the collection which have national significance. Chief amongst these is the Sea Dog Table, a walnut table, supported by chimeras or sea dogs resting on tortoises, and partly gilded. The table was based on engraved designs of about 1560 by the French architect Du Cerceau. Another favourite is the inlaid chest initaled G T, constructed by German craftsmen in London. It is assumed that this chest was created for Gilbert Talbot, Bess's son in law.