While I was at Hampton Court, the majority of the Wolsey Rooms (that were open) were hosting an exhibit, and I could not take pictures. However, the main chamber featured here, surrounded by William and Mary's apartments, is a stunning example of Tudor interior design, and one of the few remain that has not been drastically altered. The chambers featuring the exhibit were mostly just white plaster walls, some paneled in dark wood. This chamber is the only one that had anything really elegant or "regal" about it.
The "Wolsey Closet" is a room containing many original Tudor pieces from other parts of the palace.
1. Fireplace
2. Windows
3. The Ceiling
The Wolsey Closet was one of the last rooms to be renovated and restored. This is because it was in constant use as a Grace and Favor apartment. When it was finally vacated, the room was restored to its "original" appearance. However, this original appearance only came about in the 1700's.
The windows are typical of the Tudor architecture. The lead panels in the windows were used to divide the glass panes and hold them in place. Because glass was so expensive, large panes were hard to come by.
The ceiling is made of leather mache and shows the Tudor rose as well as the Prince of Wales feathers. The presence of these feathers means that the ceiling probably dates from the birth of Edward VI, son of Henry VIII. Wolsey's motto can also be seen on the ceiling, but is probably a much later "romanticised" addition.
Parts of the ceiling are original, however much of it has been recreated during restorations. During the resotration of the 1990's, a mold of the ceiling was made, leaving no detail out.
The famous paintings showing the passion of the Christ were originally commissoned by Henry VIII.
These beautiful paintings bordering this chamber are not original to the room. Rather, they were later added from another room in the palace. The paintings were cut to fit the space, and thus do not line up.
The top photo shows the last supper and the scorging of Christ. While the bottom photo shows Jesus rising from the grave and later meeting with his disciples.
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