As the restoration work concludes, we get the first tour The recently spruced-up North Range of the RHK. Photo: Gareth Chaney The figure is wearing a periwig of long curling locks, a lace cravat, silk coat with contrasting lining, silk breeches tied with bows at the knee and red-heeled shoes. This is James Butler, First Duke of Ormonde, exhibiting the elegance absorbed at the French court during his 10 years there with the exiled prince who romped back to Restoration as Charles II in 1660.
The grim years of Cromwell’s Protectorate are left behind, gaiety and hope have resumed, theatres have reopened, fashion has become colourful again and Ireland is enjoying a brief period of stability and respite from war. Join the Irish Independent WhatsApp channel Stay up to date with all the latest news.
