William Kent – the man who designed Georgian Britain
William Kent was one of the most influential architects and designers of 18th century Britain.
Working across interiors, sculpture, theatre design and landscaping (to name but a few disciplines) he is credited with introducing Palladian architecture to England, and his works include the Treasury and Horse Guards in London.
He also worked on a smaller scale, designing richly upholstered furniture for his architectural commissions at Chiswick House and Wanstead House, and an even smaller scale, creating paintings and illustrated books.
An exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum, curated in collaboration with the Bard Graduate Centre in New York, will present a selection of Kent’s extensive oeuvre.
Nearly 200 examples of Kent’s work will go on show, including architectural drawings for his building designs, and examples of his furniture.
A section of the exhibition will be dedicated to Kent’s designs for Georgian royalty, including the Royal Barge for Frederick Prince of Wales, and Queen Caroline’s Library at St James’ Palace.
William Kent: Designing Georgian Britain, is at the V&A, Cromwell Road, London SW7, from 22 March-13 July.
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