Alec Cobbe (b.1945) established his reputation as a conservator of Old Master paintings, before specializing in the redecoration and rearrangement of historic interiors as homes for masterpieces. His impressive list of clients ranges from H.R.H. The Prince of Wales to the Ritz Hotel.
This beautifully illustrated 96 page catalogue marks a gift to the V&A of Alex Cobbe’s career archive and showcases a selection of his designs in all their glory and features Forewards by H.R.H. The Prince of Wales and Martin Roth, Director of the V&A.
Three essays introduce this engaging character, at home and at work; explore the subtle art of presenting great paintings in historic houses that are open to visitors; and introduce the related holdings of the V&A’s Archive of Art and Design, where Alec Cobbe’s designs will sit alongside those of other eminent interior designers and decorators.
Julius Bryant is Keeper of Word and Image at the V&A and was previously Director of Museums and Chief Curator at English Heritage, specializing in the restoration and redisplay of historic houses open to the public. He is the author of Art and Design for All: The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A 2012).
Alec Cobbe – Designs for Historic Interiors is published by V&A Publishing and distributed in Australia by Bloomsbury Publishing.
Image: The King James Drawing Room, Hatfield House – courtesy of V&A Publishing