In contrast to the theatrical grandeur of the Painted Hall, the Chapel at Chatsworth is a quieter, more solemn space, though no less richly decorated.
It was built between 1688 and 1693, the year before William Cavendish became the 1st Duke of Devonshire. It remains one of the least altered interiors at Chatsworth.
The painted decoration was undertaken by the French artist Louis Laguerre (1663-1721), assisted by an architectural painter called Ricard.
On the walls are scenes of Christ Healing the Sick and Christ Healing the Blind Man, interpreted as allegories of religious healing after the nation’s “restoration” to Protestantism in 1688.
The ceiling shows The Ascension of Christ, surrounded by the Four Evangelists with their symbols, Luke with the ox, Matthew with the angel, Mark with the lion and John with the eagle. Five musical instruments are also included: bass viol, harp-lute, organ, trumpet and cello.
In 1693, Italian artist Antonio Verrio (c. 1636/9 - 1707) painted The Incredulity of St Thomas. This subject may have been chosen by the 1st Duke himself, as St Thomas is patron saint of architects, a role in which the Duke saw himself. The theme also resonates with the Cavendish family motto Cavendo Tutus (“safe by being cautious”).
Verrio also worked for the Duke’s brother-in-law, the Earl of Exeter, at Burghley House, where he painted his best-known work, the Heaven Room and Hell stairs. It is likely through Exeter that Verrio arrived at Chatsworth, and he worked on both projects simultaneously.
The symbolism is unmistakable: the militant figure of Justice, sword raised beside Faith, represents the defence of Protestantism, just as the 1st Duke and William III had defended it in the Revolution of 1688.
The Chapel’s ensemble of painting, sculpture, and carving makes it one of the most complete Baroque interiors in the house.
Learn more about the sculpture and carvings in the Chapel, here.
Images taken by Sarah Rawlinson at HeritagePhotographs.com
