Kimbolton School, Cambridgeshire is pleased to announce the return of two original artefacts that were sold when the contents of Kimbolton Castle were auctioned in 1949. The items in question are two Venetian footstools, likely acquired by Charles Montagu, the 4th Earl of Manchester, during his tenure as the British Ambassador to Venice between 1707 and 1708.
The return of these footstools is significant for Kimbolton Castle, as they were part of the fixtures and fittings during the castle's second phase of reconstruction, led by the renowned architect Sir John Vanbrugh. The restoration took place in the early 18th century, a period that saw the transformation of the castle into the architectural landmark it is today.
The footstools will be on public display for the first time in 75 years on Sunday 6th October, when Kimbolton Castle opens its doors to the public. Visitors will have the opportunity to see the stools in the Saloon, placed in the same spot as shown in a photograph from Country Life magazine in 1911.
Kimbolton Castle, which serves as the home of Kimbolton School, is steeped in history. It was once the final residence of Katherine of Aragon, the first wife of King Henry VIII, who died there in 1536. The return of the Venetian footstools not only enriches the school's historical collection but also allows the public to experience a piece of the castle's storied past.
The next open day will take place on Sunday, 6th October, from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
Find out more information about the open days and other upcoming events at Kimbolton Castle.
