Marble Palace
History
The house was built by Raja Rajendra Mullick in 1835. The house continues to be a residence for his descendants, and the current occupants are the family of Raja Rajendra Mullick Bahadur.
Architecture
The house is basically Neoclassical in style, while the plan with its open courtyards is largely traditional Bengali.
Collections
The house contains large quantities of Western sculpture and Victorian furniture, paintings by European and Indian artists, and other objets d'art. Decorative objects include large chandeliers, clocks, floor to ceiling mirrors, and busts of kings and queens.
The house is said to contain two paintings by Rubens, "The Marriage of St. Catherine" and "The Martyrdom of St. Sebastian." There are also said to be two paintings by Sir Joshua Reynolds, "The Infant Hercules Strangling the Serpent" and "Venus and Cupid". Other artists said to figure in the collections include Titian, Murillo, and John Opie.
Marble Palace Zoo
Located next to the palace is the Marble Palace Zoo, the first zoo opened in India, also by Raja Rajendra Mullick. It now primarily serves as an aviary, including peacocks, toucans, storks, and cranes.
Access
Because Marble Palace remains a working residence, entrance is restricted. Permission must be obtained from the government tourist office 24 hours in advance at
WEST BENGAL TOURIST INFORMATION BUREAU
Website: www.wbtourism.com
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