Queen Mary's Dolls' House: 100th Anniversary

This is a recording of a live online event held on Wednesday 13 March 2024.

On display at Windsor Castle, Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House is the largest and most famous dolls’ house in the world. It was built between 1921 and 1924 for Queen Mary, consort of King George V, by one of the most eminent contemporary British architect, Sir Edwin Lutyens.

To celebrate the 100th anniversary since the Dolls’ House was first displayed, Senior Curator of Decorative Arts Kathryn Jones joins us to share some of her personal highlights from the tiny objects on display in the Dolls’ House. These include a miniature stately eighteenth-century style bed which was made by the Royal School of Needlework and donated by our founder, Princess Christian (the mother of Princess Marie Louise).

Intended to serve as a true record of life in Edwardian England, the house has running water, electric lights and contains works from over 1,500 of the finest artists, craftspeople and manufacturers of the early 20th century. During her fascinating talk, Kathryn will also provide insight into the process of how the house is conserved for future generations of visitors to enjoy.