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THE DECORATION
As the house had been completely gutted by vandals, it was not possible to utilised any of the original decoration. A great deal of care has been taken in the choice of wall and cioling papers. Although the papers are modern ones, they are as close as possible in design, colour and feeling to the original papers of the period, and approach very closely some known and dated examples of paper still in use.
The painting of the cornices and woodwork has been carefully coped from the original, though with some colour changes where necessary. Fitted carpets, similar in design to the one used here, were available during the period, but would not have been used quite so extensively as at the present. Linoleum was generally considered more healthy for bedrooms and considering the rarity of carpet sweepers, this was probably quite so, however, comfort is possible now with modern cleaning methods.
The curtains used throughout have been chosen as close reproductions of Victorian designs - some are hung on heavy wooden rods, with wooden rings, and others are fitted behind gilded brass pelments, which were originally used in the house.
The original furniture of the house was widely dispersed after the auction sale in 1952, so no attempt has been made to furnish in similar manner. Instead, Mr. & Mrs. Ryan have chosen antique and Victorian furniture represeentative of the periods up to the 1880's. A description of the house, room by room will enable visitors to appreciate the splendor of the furnishings, pictured and objects d'art. Pieces of exceptional quality or interest will be described in detail.
We welcome you to continue on with your virtual tour of Monte Cristo Homestead by clicking the link you will find above.
