The Age of Decadence – Arts and Crafts with Christopher Rogers – part of ‘History Live’ at the Merchant’s House
24 April @ 10:30 am – 12:30 pm
The late 19th century saw Great Britain at its zenith. The British Empire spanned the world as did our commercial and financial interests. Fortunes were made, ranging from beef production in South America to the tea estates of Assam. New money needed to be displayed and showing off with a new house, the more opulent the better, was a symbol of success. It might well be described as an ‘Age of Decadence’ where taste was subservient to display. However, is that a fair assessment? The influence of William Morris, the Arts and Crafts Movement and the legacy of Edwin Lutyens and Detmar Blow might suggest otherwise. We will explore these different trends in the dying years of this ‘Age of Decadence’, brought to a cataclysmic end by the First World War.
The Merchant’s House is thrilled to present History Live, a week-long festival celebrating history in all its forms. This inaugural event promises something for everyone: from engaging lectures and a walking tour of Marlborough to visits to Wilton Windmill and Shaw House.
History Live invites visitors to step back in time, explore local heritage, and experience history in a dynamic, interactive way. Organisers hope this marks the start of a landmark annual event for Marlborough.
In Partnership with North Wessex Downs Landscape Trust and Wiltshire Historic Buildings Trust
