Carl and Edith Weeks avidly collected items from around the world. The result: more than 10,000 objects make up an amazing and eclectic collection which includes Native American crafts, rare books and documents, fine arts and decorative arts, and antiques centuries old.
The pieces in this vast collection came about through the passion of Carl and Edith Weeks for distinctive objects of history, architecture and the arts. Their worldwide travels in search of unique items and international contacts are reflected in the diversity and beauty of the collection.
The Weeks' support of artists Joseph Stella and Lillian Genth boosted the careers of these artists in the 1920s. Stella's "Apotheosis of the Rose", and "The Birth of Venus" are two of the artist's works commissioned by the Weeks. Both are on display in Salisbury House & Gardens. Three of Lillian Genth's paintings hang in Salisbury House & Gardens as well, including a portrait of Edith Weeks.
The more than 3,000 rare and first edition books in the Library include classic literary works, most by English and American writers, including in-depth collections of the works of D.H. Lawrence, Charles Dickens, Ernest Hemingway and others. These shelves also hold some 60 bibles, including a leaf from the original printing of the Gutenberg Bible.
Expect surprises at every turn during a Salisbury House & Gardens visit.