Providing a snapshot of the eclectic and lavish aesthetic of the Victorian era, Opulence: luxury in early Bendigo homes is a new exhibition at Bendigo’s Post Office Gallery until 4 October 2015.
With a zealous enthusiasm, domestic interiors of the Victorian era were adorned with a variety of embellishments. Inspired by a range of sources including historic revivals and orientalism, the eclectic style of the time was defined by a passion for ornamentation and a decisive overlapping of colour, texture and pattern.
In a Victorian home, every available surface was filled with objects, curiosities, pictures and furnishings reflecting the inhabitant’s interests and social aspirations. The Industrial Revolution stimulated the proliferation of the Victorian aesthetic. Industrial processes facilitated mass-production and enabled even the most elaborate pieces to be affordable.
With their new-found wealth and keeness for machine-made objects, the expanding Victorian middle classes were significant consumers of decorative items and luxury goods. They spent up big, keen to emulate the houses of the wealthy, elevate their social status and boast their material success.
The aesthetic reached its most extravagant in the 1880s, a time when many Bendigo citizens were rapidly building their fortunes and establishing the city. It is unsurprising then, that hallmarks of Victorian design are present on the exteriors and interiors of many civic and domestic buildings in Bendigo.
Without a doubt the most impressive domestic example is Fortuna Villa located on Chum Street, Bendigo. Mining magnate George Lansell purchased the property in 1871 and spared no expense in its expansion and decoration. Interior photographs of Fortuna included in the exhibition show lavish decoration with an eclectic mix of influences and a flamboyant personal style.
Opulence: luxury in early Bendigo homes
Post Office Gallery, 51-67 Pall Mall, Bendigo
Exhibition continues to 4 October 2015
Free entry
For more information, visit: www.bendigoartgallery.com.au for details.
Image: A pair of Staffordshire spaniels