The Collection of Robert Jackson
Dining room painted by Robert Jackson in Bryn Mawr, PA, decorated by Bunny Williams.
Stair Galleries is pleased to offer the Collection of Robert Jackson (1931-2003), renowned muralist and tromp l’oeil artist. A gifted and recognized decorative painter, Mr. Jackson’s works can be seen augmenting period rooms of the American Wing in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. His talents are illustrated in both the ornamentation of the Gothic Revival Library and in the ceiling of the Renaissance Revival Parlor. He has collaborated with many high profile interior designers including Bunny Williams, Mario Buatta, and Mark Hampton on projects in private residences throughout New York City. He also worked extensively with Richard Hampton Jenerette at Edgewater, an 1820 classical revival house overlooking the Hudson River and once owned by Gore Vidal. Mr. Jackson is also known for his work in public spaces such as Blair House and the diplomatic reception room of the State Department.
It has been said Robert Jackson excelled at producing the illusion of depth in spaces though a masterful use of shading and textures. He began to learn his techniques under the tutelage of Oliver Messel, a celebrated British stage, costume and prop designer of the 20th century. Mr. Jackson also had the honor of participating in the restoration of Horace Walpole’s home, Strawberry Hill. This home was intended in the 18th century for entertaining and referred to as ‘a little Gothic Castle’ with elaborately painted ceilings and tracery patterns adorning the walls.
Mr. Jackson’s collection echoes his keen eye and love for the painted surface. The pair of Italian Neoclassical Style Cream Painted Consoles with Faux Marble Tops (lot 175) are chic in their simplicity. The Painted Wood ‘Faux Book’ Side Table (lot 135) is an example of charm, whimsy and perhaps a nod to the illusion in a stage set. Beyond faux finishes, the collection includes a beautiful example of English furniture in a smartly upholstered Late Regency Mahogany Armchair (lot 197). The Italian Blue Painted and Parcel-Gilt Bookcase (lot 249), further reflects a respect for a variety of styles and periods which served Mr. Jackson so well in his career. Perhaps most important are his personal large scale artworks. Urns in a Garden (lot 236) are composed like stage sets, they provide a sense of drama as one peers past the urns and the greenery expecting to find a magnificent façade behind. Gladiolus and Untitled (Still Life) (lot 237) are beautiful in their simplicity and treatment of light on the delicate flower petals.
Stair Galleries is delighted to share the Collection of Robert Jackson as part of our December 16th Auction beginning at 11am.