Most interesting, and worthy of more than a passing notice, is the collection of Chantilly Porcelain, an industry founded in 1730 by the Duc de Bourbon. A set of porcelain made at that time was placed in the King’s Bedroom.[142]
In the centre of the Galerie des Peintures stands a fine bust of the Duc d’Aumale by Dubois, and in the Marble Hall lies his recumbent figure in full uniform by the same artist, a cast[143] of the marble figure upon his tomb in the Cathedral at Dreux.
And so with the death of the man his work came to a close. But his genius as a collector has furnished France with one of the finest Homes of Art in the World; and she does well to remember with gratitude this scion of the Bourbon race, who stretched out his hand to expiate much. Every lover of Art throughout the world, and every wayfarer who in his wanderings finds his way to Chantilly, may well stand amazed at this collection and praise its creator. Nor in passing out should he fail to give a last glance at the silent effigy: a glance in which gratitude should be mingled with that emotion which ever holds the thoughtful spectator of departed greatness.
Plate LXXIX.
TOMB OF THE DUC D’AUMALE.
In the Cathedral at Dreux. Cast at Chantilly.