The Banquetting Room is one of the most impressive rooms in the Pavilion, with its walls covered with Chinese domestic scenes and elaborately painted ceiling. It is bling at its best.
There is gold everywhere from ornaments like the combined clock and barometer above the fireplace to displays of gold and silver tableware on sideboards around the room – all intended to show off George’s wealth and status.
The room was lit by a splendid cut glass chandelier, originally lit by oil lamps and candles hanging from a silvered dragon in the dome, with smaller lotus flower lights around it.
More lotus shaped lamps stand on jars of blue Spode porcelain with ormolu dragons gaving extra light.
In the centre of the room is the table that could seat up to 36 guests. The Prince Regent had secured the services of a renowned French chef, and menus could consist of up to sixty different dishes. The table is set with for the dessert course.
Beyond the banqueting room is the Table Deckers’ or Pages’ Room. The table decker was responsible for checking glassware, porcelain linen and silver before laying the table. Food was also brought here from the kitchen before being placed on the table.