A
canonized evangelical and an American forefather aren’t often a likely
pair, though the latter pair certainly is! I can always count on my
dearest pal Maggie Griffin to be on board for fun! And I cannot thank her enough for all her planning and hard work too – she is always the best!!!
For this year’s Cathedral Antique Show,
I was honored to be selected as a designer for ‘Inspiration Avenue’,
which was a collection of fab folks and fellow designers who were all
inspired by a historical character for which a room was designed. For
this Farmer, ol’ TJ was top on the list – especially after my recent
trip to Tuckahoe!
Maggie
and I thought that Mr. Jefferson probably knew how to throw a great
dinner party at Monticello. He would invite his friends such as George
and Martha (Washington of course), John and Abigail (Adams of course)
and James and Dolly (Madison mind you) to feast upon French fish plates
he probably procured whilst serving as minster to France. TJ too
probably sent back to his Virginia home some other trappings from France
– maybe a tapestry, velvet mutton leg chairs and books too!
Other
trapping may have been more aboriginal in nature or inspired there
from. Lewis and Clark no doubt influenced the décor with renderings and
artwork alike of the flora and fauna seen on their Jefferson
commissioned journey across America. Too, I felt a nod to the recently
succeeded from British Empire was still apropos, so an English oak and
walnut dining table anchored the space.
Many eras influenced Jefferson’s lifetime including the ever en vogue dose of Chinoiserie as
seen in the blue and white temple jars, lamps and décor on the Sheraton
style sideboard. As Napoleon and the French empire grew across “the
pond,” Jefferson and the world too were inspired and influenced by the
empire style, which became quite popular in the American South. I loved
that this inspiration point allowed me to use the “Napp Chest” that once
belong to Napoleon Granade – my great, great, great grandfather. I am
flattered to have it now as my dressing chest currently, but I am merely
the keeper for a short time. Napp Yelton shall use it once he is ready!
Taking cues from Jefferson’s life at Tuckahoe and Monticello, his ministering to France and his service as President and statesman too, I felt so inclined and inspired to create this space in his honor. Even the Palladian Blue wall color nodded to Jefferson’s delight in Palladio’s architecture and love for balance and symmetry. I hope y’all enjoy this little tour of TJ’s dining room – Maggie and I had a ball!
Feast your eyes on the rest of these photos and be sure to visit Bellissimo and Bella for more deets on TJ’s dining room!
