The Lynnewood Hall Preservation Foundation recently shared photos and background stories of decorative items left behind by original owner Joseph Widener, as well as a tribute to his wife, Ella Pancoast Widener.

From their Facebook post on Thursday, September 14:

Did you know that aside from the world famous paintings that Joseph Widener donated to the @ngadc in 1943, he also donated many decorative items as well?

Today we’re featuring two items seen in the black and white photos.

One of the statement pieces of the First Gallery at Lynnewood Hall was this massive 16th Century walnut table which entered the collection in 1930. The piece is more than twelve feet long and features intricate carvings throughout.

The second feature of today are four lovely Netherlandish 17th Century cushions which adorned one of the several hand carved Italian cassabancas in the galleries. Given their age, it is amazing to see their condition.

These items, and many others, have been meticulously cared for by the National Gallery of Art for eighty years. It’s so special to be able to view them in person, for free, and reference where they were in the mansion.

Several other pieces in the background of the current day photographs are from Lynnewood Hall, one of them is quite famous. Can you guess what they are?

From their Facebook post on Wednesday, September 6:

Ella Pancoast Widener was noted for her beauty, generosity and gracious disposition. Though she came from old Philadelphia Society, she gave it all up when she married Joseph Widener in 1894. Marrying new money was an unforgivable faux pas in those days. In later years however, her “friends” recanted their harsh criticism.

She was a tremendous patron of the arts and was well regarded in Philadelphia, Newport, and Palm Beach as one of the reigning ladies of American Society. Her true passions were in theatre, music, opera, flowers, and her children.

Ella passed away at Lynnewood Hall in 1929 but her memory and spirit live on in the grand old home. Her portrait has been prominently placed over the fireplace in the Library. Every day she is a reminder to lead with grace and kindness.

“Mother was the first real democratic influence in my life. She was a very great lady because she was rich in the only coin worth having in this world – human understanding and human sympathy. All the Widener wealth could not buy what she could win with a smile.”

~Peter A.B. Widener II

On Wednesday, September 13, CBS Philadelphia released the following video:

On Monday, August 28, 6ABC released the following video:

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