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The Times: Sissinghurst Castle, renowned for its gardens, is a historic gem created by Vita Sackville-West and Harold Nicolson over a span of thirty years. The landscape is often described as “quintessential” in tourist literature. The castle itself stands as a testament to the Sackville family’s deep-rooted history since the early 17th century. Today, the remnants of this Tudor showpiece, now under the care of the National Trust, houses an eclectic collection of books, memorabilia, and relics from the past.
An upcoming exhibition, A Persian Paradise, delves into a two-year period of the Nicolsons’ lives during the 1920s when Harold served a diplomatic role in Iran, then known as Persia. This exhibition, set to open on October 14 and conclude on March 24, 2024, reconnects the Nicolsons’ narratives with photographs and artefacts from their time in Iran. Interestingly, Harold’s roots in Tehran trace back to his birth there, with his father having served in the British Legation. However, their understanding of Iranian culture was limited, evident when Harold greeted the shah with a farewell in Persian.
While the late 19th and early 20th centuries saw a trend among the wealthy to collect Persian art, the Nicolsons, not of such affluence, sought souvenirs more for their character than their monetary value. Vita, in particular, was drawn to the rich hues of “dim greens and lustrous blues” she found in the Tehran bazaar. These ceramic pieces, ranging from the medieval era to more recent times, were valued by Vita for their aura of antiquity.
During their travels, the couple explored the ancient ruins of Persepolis, a site of historical significance. Amidst the ruins, Vita collected small artefacts, including a carved piece she described as having “the curls of an Assyrian beard”. Such actions, while seen as innocent keepsakes, were reminiscent of early instances of historical despoilment by foreigners.
These Persian relics held significant emotional value for Vita. In fact, she gifted a piece to her lover, Virginia Woolf, with whom she shared a tumultuous relationship. Virginia cherished the fragment, linking it to her intense memories with Vita.
In contrast, Harold’s view on artefacts was intertwined with personal experiences. During his visit to the US, he contrasted the authenticity of their collected items with the superficial collections of American millionaires. He saw their items as an extension of their lives, resonating with memories and stories.
The exhibition not only showcases the Nicolsons’ collection but also emphasises the importance of understanding the history and context of such artefacts. Without proper documentation and study, these objects might become mere curiosities, devoid of their deep historical significance.
The entire article can be read at the link https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/the-aristocrats-who-decorated-their-home-with-pocket-artefacts-times-luxury-7g2d3tdcm
