THE BEST OF BRITAIN | William Johnston: His Residence & Collection

THE BEST OF BRITAIN | WILLIAM JOHNSTON: His Residence and Collection features key pieces from William Johnston’s collection that represent all that is eclectic and extraordinary about fine and decorative arts in Britain during the long 18th century. This visually enticing display of over 400 years of art history showcases Johnston’s lifetime passion for collecting. Rare items adorn each room of Fairhall exhibition-house. Immerse yourself in otherworldly treasures and luscious interiors, filled with stories of design, history, travel, and tales of the past.

William Johnston prided himself on championing – and setting the tone of – British interiors in Melbourne, especially with items that were from his stock at Kent Antiques in Armadale. He promoted the classic English craftsmanship of Chippendale and Hepplewhite and celebrated the ceramics of the wondrous potteries of Wedgwood, Bow and Chelsea. This exhibition explores design of the long 18th century and its influences on the fine and decorative arts in Britain.

The title of the exhibition is inspired by an exhibition titled ‘The Best of Britain’ staged by iconic Melbourne department store, Georges. William Johnston was one of 17 contributors to the display. Encouraged by John Rogan of the National Trust of Victoria, who had earlier organised an exhibition of ‘Victorian Room Settings’, William Johnston lent pieces from Fairhall that he thought would be eminently suitable

THE BEST OF BRITAIN | WILLIAM JOHNSTON: His Residence & Collection offers a traditional interpretation of the Collection.