Audio
2. Elliptical Hall
Transcript
While amongst some the wealthiest human beings who have ever lived, the Vanderbilts were considered new money in their day. Newly rich families of the Gilded age were a bit more showy than their old monied counterparts in society. They were part of a culture of self-styled American royalty. When visiting, one walks under Horns of Plenty on the front portico and experiences a home full of symbols representing prosperity and power. Indeed, the Vanderbilt family has been referred to as the “American Medici,” American merchant princes. The Vanderbilt Mansion NHS was first national park service house museum to come with intact furnishings. Most of the objects you’ll find in this house are original. Objects of art are placed throughout this home. And if something looks uncomfortable, it probably wasn’t used. As you visit the rooms, you’ll find that prominent architects McKim, Mead and White, interior decorators, European furniture dealers, and craftsmen created a fantasy realm full of reinterpretations of “old world” noble aesthetics.
Description
A 17th Century Medici crest is located prominently over the grand fireplace clearly marking this as the home of a “merchant prince.” Cipollino (“onion stone”) and Carerra marble walls and floor, classical statues and throne chairs create an impressive introduction into the Vanderbilt’s home and served to showcase their status. During a party, this would have been a location of formal reception and refreshments.
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