Golden gates designed by a renowned French master are gleaming again at Burghley House after a major restoration gave a new lease of life to the 300-year-old ironwork.
Situated on the west front of the Elizabethan house, the Tijou Gates have stood as an integral part of Burghley’s architectural heritage for over three centuries – and even survived damage from a bomb blast during the Second World War.
Now, after a six-month restoration by leading architectural metalworkers based in North Yorkshire, the Gates are back in their rightful place.
Designed by Jean Tijou (1689-1712), whose craftmanship can also be seen at some of England’s most significant Baroque landmarks, including Hampton Court Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral and Kensington Palace, the Gates were originally installed late 17th century.
Crafted from wrought iron and finished in gold, the gilding was carried out by René Cousin, a distinguished gilder who worked alongside Italian decorative artist Antonio Verrio during his commission to paint the State Room ceilings at Burghley between 1686 and 1697.
The last major restoration of the Tijou Gates took place in 1997, involving dismantling, repair, and re-gilding. However, over time, corrosion beneath the surface led to gilding deterioration.
Conservation work included crafting more than 40 new copper leaves to match the originals, replacing missing or compromised elements. Much of the scrollwork at the base of the gates was also reconstructed and fitted with new collars to align with the original design.
While the new work aims to ensure long-term protection, some well-preserved earlier repairs have been retained, as a nod to the gates’ rich history.
Among the most interesting, is damage from when a German bomber jettisoned a 500-pound bomb in 1940, which exploded a few hundred metres from Burghley House.
Dubbed England’s greatest Elizabethan house, Burghley is one of the largest and grandest houses of the 16th Century, built by William Cecil, Lord High Treasurer to Queen Elizabeth I, between 1555 and 1587.Today Burghley House, its two gardens, Capability Brown designed parkland and Hide & Secrets Adventure Play is a popular visitor attraction.
For full details of opening times, all events and to book tickets, visit www.burghley.co.uk
Photos: the restored Tijou Gates as they are today; and pictured when damaged in a wartime bomb blast
