LEEDS CASTLE ACQUIRES HISTORIC PIECE

The exquisite secretaire à abattant (writing desk), sold off following Lady Baillie's death in 1974, has been acquired by Leeds Castle Foundation thanks to generous funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and the dedicated efforts of the Castle's curatorial team.

Designed by the esteemed 20th century designer, Stéphane Boudin, and intricately painted in trompe l'oeil (from French meaning 'to deceive the eye') by Roger Natter, the secrétaire will be re-united with two existing Boudin commodes already in situ within the castle. Its acquisition into the Leeds Castle collection is the first time that an object has been returned to Lady Baillie's original collection.

Boudin, whose expertise earned him the sobriquet the 'decorator's decorator', partnered with Lady Baillie from 1935 until his death in 1967, to create many of the interiors within the castle; including the Blue Bedroom, the Library, and the Dining Room. Boudin's global renown also earned him commissions with the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, and he later worked closely with Jacqueline Kennedy to redecorate several rooms within the White House, including the Red Room.

Leeds Castle extends its heartfelt gratitude to the players of The National Lottery and The National Lottery Heritage Fund for their unwavering support, belief in the Castle's mission, and their commitment to preserving and enhancing our shared cultural heritage.

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