Culzean Castle, overlooking the Firth of Clyde, has a fascinating history. In 1569, the 4th Earl of Cassilis gifted the castle to his brother, Sir Thomas Kennedy. In the following centuries, the castle was expanded and enlarged. The original castle was likely a stone tower house and dates back to the late 14th century.
In the late 18th century, David Kennedy, the 10th Earl of Cassilis, commissioned Robert Adam to transform the castle into an impressive stately home befitting of the family’s title. Over fifteen years, Adam oversaw the renovations of the castle. Adam took the earlier L-plan house and added a kitchen block as well as a new three story wing. In addition to designing its impressive exterior, Adam designed the interiors of the castle as well, including the grand oval staircase. The staircase is supported by Ionic and Corinthian columns and leads to an impressive Round Drawing Room on the first floor that offers panoramic views of the Clyde. The castle has been part of the National Trust for Scotland since 1945.
We are delighted to have recently acquired a pair of George I walnut side chairs that were previously on loan to Culzean Castle from the collection of the 8th Earl of Buckingham. The chairs feature rectangular backs and seats and are raised on cabriole legs ending in pad feet.