The genius of Sir Edwin Lutyens, renowned for the monumental city of New Delhi, is embodied in the Queen Mary's Dolls' House, a work that transcends its modest appearance to become an unparalleled architectural jewel.
The spark that ignited the creation of the dollhouse came from Princess Mary Louise, who, moved by the First World War, wished to offer an unforgettable gift to her friend, Queen Mary.It not only embodied a gesture of friendship but also a symbol of hope and rebirth in difficult times.
A Meticulous Project
To bring her vision to life, Mary Louise called upon Lutyens, a close friend and architectural genius. Together, and with a demanding committee, they defined every detail of the dollhouse, ensuring that each element radiated quality and refinement. The Edwardian style chosen was a tribute to an era of splendor and tranquility, a refuge amidst the upheaval of the time.
More Than a Dolls' House
More than just a simple dollhouse, Lutyens' creation became a miniature mansion.Equipped with all the amenities of a real house, including electricity, running water, and working elevators, the dollhouse became a spectacle of craftsmanship and talent.Over 1,500 artists, craftsmen, and manufacturers of the time dedicated their expertise to creating this masterpiece, which was proudly exhibited at the British Empire Exhibition in Wembley in 1924.
A Living Legacy
A century later, the Queen Mary's Dolls' House continues to captivate the world.In the framework of its centenary, Queen Camilla has assumed the role of protector of this architectural jewel, renovating the house's impressive library with 20 new manuscripts by outstanding contemporary authors and illustrators. These new texts, largely inspired by the dollhouse itself, are a sample of the vibrant British literature of today and keep alive the tradition of miniature literature..
A Perennial Symbol
The Queen Mary's Dolls' House, a royal gift turned legend, is a symbol of creativity, attention to detail, and passion for architecture. Its legacy, which extends from its origin as a personal gift to its status as the largest and most famous dollhouse in the world, is a tribute to human talent and the enduring beauty of design.
The renovation of the library by Queen Camilla, a century after its creation, consolidates the importance of this work as a cultural treasure and a symbol of the constant evolution of art and literature.The Queen Mary's Dolls' House, with its timeless charm, invites you to discover a world of dreams, stories, and boundless creativity.
