Mansion’s dazzling display reveals what the butler saw

Used as a workshop for the past half a century, renovation work in the room has uncovered a number of original features harking back to its heyday, including a traditional Yorkshire stone floor and a 19^th century fireplace hidden behind an old radiator.

Paint samples were taken from the walls and meticulously analysed, and a wallpaper expert has even recreated wood grained paper from tiny scraps found in the room, returning it to its 1890s aesthetic.

The house’s remarkable collection of antique British silverware is also given centre stage in new showcases and in a refurbished plate safe, where it would have traditionally been stored before being polished and presented at lavish banquets and occasions. This replaces a former gallery display which lacked lift access.

The collection includes the breathtaking, ornate chinoiserie epergne crafted by Thomas Pitts in 1759 and once owned by Paris socialite and early 20th century fashion icon the Hon Mrs Daisy Fellowes.

Also part of the display is the astonishing Kirkleatham centrepiece, made in 1731 by noted silversmith Anne Tanqueray and her brother, David Willaume II.

The historic silver has been displayed alongside spectacular contemporary pieces by world-renowned makers Junko Mori and Hiroshi Suzuki.

Adam Toole, curator at Temple Newsam House, said: “The process of restoring the Butler’s Pantry to its former condition has been a real labour of love that’s given us such a fascinating insight into aspects of life at the house which are much less well known.

“It’s usually the illustrious aristocrats of Temple Newsam who are central to the house’s history, but the staff who lived and worked here were integral to keeping the house running for generations, taking care of its stunning silverware and in many ways making it the place it is today.

“Celebrating their story and finding out what life was like for staff here through the ages is a fitting celebration of the house’s heritage and great opportunity for visitors to step back in time.

"The restoration has also provided the opportunity to re-display our internationally important silver collection in new cases, allowing it to be much better appreciated by our visitors.”

One of the country’s finest examples of its kind, Temple Newsam House was a family home for much of its 500-year history.

At one time the house would have employed an army of cleaners, butlers, cooks and attendants as well as groundskeeping staff to take care of the sprawling estate.

Under public ownership, Temple Newsam has built one of the most significant decorative art collections in the UK.

Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said: “Temple Newsam has played such an important part in the history and heritage of Leeds and the house has been the setting for some fascinating stories through the years.

“This fantastic restoration project means visitors will have a new opportunity to find out even more about life at the house and explore some enthralling elements of life at Temple Newsam.”

The newly restored Butler’s Pantry is now open to the public as part of the main route through the house. For more details on visiting, please see: Temple Newsam | Leeds Museums and Galleries | Days out and exhibitions

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