The Social Diary attended the Opening Night Reception of a dynamic new Exhibition on Thursday, May 29th. The life of this prolific Gilded Age architect is on full display. Richard Morris Hunt Exhibition at Rosecliff continues through November 2nd.
Aptly titled, “Richard Morris Hunt: In a New Light,” the exhibition highlights his achievements through “lived experience.” In addition to being one of the greatest builders of the Gilded Age, he was also an avid collector. Additionally, he “aided his wealthy clients in acquiring significant works of fine and decorative art.” Here is his story.
Richard Morris Hunt’s architectural influence is evident in Newport, and well remembered. His final resting place at Island Cemetery, a poignant reminder of his deep connection to the “City by the Sea.”
Marble House and The Breakers Recreated
The Social Diary visited Marble House this past February. Alva Vanderbilt’s “Gothic” room recreated for this exhibition, a rather good likeness, down to the wood panels.
The Ladies Reception Room at The Breakers is “one of America’s first period rooms,” featuring “historic wall paneling from France.” Here creatively replicated for the exhibition.
Richard Morris Hunt: Collaborative
A small army helped assemble the artifacts and archives. Additonally, funding, and “in-kind” donations contributed to the success of this exhibition. Hunt also made significant contributions in his lifetime, including to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, many of the pieces displayed for this exhibition.
Likewise, the panels from Alva Vanderbilt’s New York City Mansion built by Hunt survived. The Panels from “Petit Chateau” are on display at Rosecliff during the exhibition, thanks to the collaborative efforts.
This likeness is of Richard Morris Hunt as a stonemason. Pictured in frame is Petit Chateau.
Richard Morris Hunt: Remarkable Family
One of the Hallmarks of a “remarkable” life is leaving the world better for having known you. Hunt was not only an extraordinary designer, builder and collector, he instilled similar values in his children. Moreover, these same values and creative outlet supported by his mother, helped him on the path to success. Additionally, his wife was not only a life partner, but accomplished in her own right.
Furthermore, Richard Morris Hunt beloved by his colleagues and friends, evident by the tributes on the news of his death.
Indeed Richard Morris Hunt accomplished so much in his life time, and we reap the benefits.
Hospitality Notes
The Social Diary has attended several events at Rosecliff, with somewhat mixed reviews. However, on this occasion, the catering provided by Blackstone was professional and fluid.
Blackstone offered several hors d’oeuvres including Feta Cheese and Watermelon, Shrimp with aioli and stuffed mushroom with artichoke. In our honest opinion aioli was perhaps not the right type of sauce. A sweeter variety such as mango chutney or pineapple would be a perfect accompaniment to the Shrimp.
Additionally, the usual fare of crudités, cheeses and crackers set up buffet style.
Service was professional and friendly.