Banqueting room

Returned to the Banqueting Room mantelpieces are two of the most impressive examples of European chinoiserie. Both the clock and the combined barometer and thermometer were commissioned by George for this room. The clock was made by the royal clockmaker BL Vuillamy. The surrounding design in gilt-bronze, silver, lapis lazuli and enamel paint is probably by the Banqueting Room’s designer, Robert Jones. Both clock and barometer are adorned with shimmering Chinese figures, echoing Jones’s painted figures on the walls. Peacocks perch on top, a traditional symbol of pride.