The Painted Hall, ‘the finest dining hall in Europe’, was painted by Sir James Thornhill, who called it his ‘great and laborious undertaking’. It took him 19 years to complete (1708 – 1727) and includes numerous references to the importance of the navy to Britain’s fortunes and the succession of monarchs from William and Mary to George I.

It is now more than 50 years since the paintings were last conserved and the accumulated grime and areas of cracking mean that work is again needed to stabilise and clean these wonderful works of art for both present and future generations. The Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) has awarded us a grant towards the first phase of the works, the conservation of the west wall of the Painted Hall, showing King George I and his family. Funds will also support our work with local community groups and allow you to get up close to conservation in progress - but we still need additional support.

Over the next few years, with your support, we hope to conserve the rest of Sir James Thornhill’s wonderful paintings. Thornhill’s payment for his work in the Painted Hall was calculated at £3 per square yard for the ceiling and £1 per square yard for the walls. Today the conservation of the west wall is estimated to cost £675 per square yard – or £75 per square foot. Will you give £75 to conserve one square foot of painting and add your name to the Painted Hall’s long list of benefactors?

Please donate now online, text ORNC11 £5 to 70070 or discover how to give by cheque or bank transfer.

• Supporters & Benefactors

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