Art at The Angel Inn
A unique feature of staying or dining at The Angel Inn is the art on the walls. Every work of art you see here is original and forms part of the owning family's collection. Works on display around the building include some important Old Master paintings and drawings as well as post war and modern British art.
In The Well Room restaurant you can see a famous portrait of Cosimo di Medici, Grand Duke of Tuscany, which was painted in Florence in the middle of the 16th century. This work is from the studio of Bronzino and it has recently been suggested that the artist is Giovanni Butteri (1540-1606) - one of Bronzino's most highly regarded studio painters.
Another important old master painting can be seen in the restaurant, near the north entrance. This portrait was painted in England by The Master of the Countess of Warwick around 1575. The subject is Sir Philip Sidney, one of the most prominent figures in Elizabethan England. This work may be the youngest image of Sidney in existence.
Another important old master painting can be seen in the restaurant, near the north entrance. This portrait was painted in England by The Master of the Countess of Warwick around 1575. The subject is Sir Philip Sidney, one of the most prominent figures in Elizabethan England. This work may be the youngest image of Sidney in existence.
The post war and modern British collection includes works by major British artists such Graham Sutherland, Christopher Wood, Trevor Bell, Alexander Mackenzie and Philip Sutton.
Left to Right:
Portrait of Cosimo I de' Medici , Grand Duke of Tuscany - Studio of Bronzino (possibly Giovanni Butteri) circa 1550
Portrait of a gentleman, bust length, wearing a fitted jacket, a ruff and a feathered cap - Master of the Countess of Warwick, circa 1575
Ages of Life - Graham Sutherland, Gouache on paper, 1957
Excitement - Trevor Bell, Gouache on paper, 1961
The History of our room names
Constable
Step into Constable, our room that pays homage to the renowned English Landscape painter, John Constable.
He was born in the picturesque county of Suffolk.
John Constable's artistic journey was intrinsically intertwined with the serene and breath-taking countryside of Dedham Vale, which enveloped his home. This region, often referred to as "Constable Country," served as both his muse and his canvas. It was here that he found inspiration in the gentle rolling hills, the meandering rivers, and the tranquil beauty of the English countryside.
There are many footpaths around Dedham Vale where you can enjoy the areas Constable once painted.
Gainsborough
Our room Gainsborough is named after Thomas Gainsborough of Sudbury who was a masterful creator of captivating portraits and landscapes.
In 1958, Gainsborough house, the birthplace and childhood home of Thomas Gainsborough, was saved from potential demolition.
Founded by a group of art enthusiasts, the Gainsborough’s House Society restored and transformed it into a centre dedicated to his work.
Open Monday - Sunday 10 am - 5 pm
46 Gainsborough Street, Sudbury, Suffolk, CO10 2EU
Munnings
Our room Munnings is named after Sir Alfred Munnings. He is known as one of England’s foremost painters of horses.
His story is intricately woven into the fabric of Castle House in Dedham.
Sir Alfred Munnings acquired Castle House and its adjoining studio in 1910.
Now it is open to the public as The Munnings Art Museum.
Museum open Wednesday - Sunday 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Café open Wednesday - Sunday 10 am - 4:30 pm
Flatford
Named after the quaint hamlet of Flatford, nestled near East Bergholt in the heart of Suffolk. This room pays homage to the exquisite beauty of Flatford, celebrated for its historic landmarks immortalized in the iconic paintings of John Constable.
John Constable masterfully captured the essence of Flatford Mill, Willy Lott's Cottage, and Bridge Cottage in his artwork.
Haywain
Aptly named "The Haywain," draws inspiration from the timeless painting by John Constable, completed in 1821.
"The Haywain" is a breath-taking masterpiece that encapsulates the rustic beauty of the English countryside, nestled between the idyllic counties of Suffolk and Essex near Flatford Mill.
The painting, now proudly displayed in the hallowed halls of the National Gallery in London, is celebrated as one of Constable's most iconic works.
Stour
named after the magnificent River Stour.
The River Stour, with its 47-mile meandering course, serves as a picturesque natural border between Suffolk to the north and Essex to the south. This majestic waterway winds its way through the enchanting landscapes of Sudbury, Nayland, Stratford St Mary, and the iconic Dedham Vale.
It has long been a muse for renowned artists like John Constable, Thomas Gainsborough, and Sir Alfred Munnings. Their timeless paintings, capturing the river's grace and the surrounding countryside, serve as a testament to the enduring allure of this region.
Cornfield
Named after the masterpiece "The Cornfield" by renowned English artist John Constable.
Completed in the artist's studio between January and March 1826, "The Cornfield" captures the essence of a lane leading from East Bergholt toward Dedham, immortalizing the picturesque English countryside.
Tye
Tye is a short masculine name of English origin, meaning pasture. Which means an enclosed piece of land
Named after the sprawling pastures and tranquil commons that grace our village.
Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, visit the historic churchyard, or simply savour the fresh air and open spaces that make our village a cherished destination.
Eyke
Aptly named Eyke. Just as the name "Eyke" originally meant "oak," this luxurious retreat draws its inspiration from the strength and tranquillity of the majestic oak tree.
Our garden terrace, adorned with age-old oak beams, is a masterpiece. These ancient sentinels provide a canopy of shade and serenity, a quiet sanctuary where you can unwind and connect with the beauty of the outdoors. It's the perfect place to savour a morning coffee or sip a glass of wine as you watch the world go by.
Spire
Named after the captivating view it our room spire provides, Spire boasts a window that frames the awe-inspiring St. Mary's Church Tower. Completed in the enchanting year of 1470, this architectural marvel stands tall at an impressive 38 meters (128 feet), its timeless beauty a testament to centuries of history.
As you gaze out from your window, you'll be transported to a bygone era, where the bells of St. Mary's once echoed through the cobblestone streets. The view of this majestic spire serves as a constant reminder of the rich heritage that surrounds The Angel Inn.
Wolsey
Named after one of Suffolk's most illustrious historical figures. Named after Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, the Chancellor to Henry VIII, this opulent sanctuary embodies the elegance and grandeur that befits such a distinguished name.
Cardinal Wolsey, born in Ipswich in 1473, left an indelible mark on history.