Decision details

This decision relates to one new loan request for an item in the Ipswich Borough Council Museum collections.

1.    Conholt Park (IPSMG:LO.2025.1) This loan relates to one work in the Ipswich Borough Council Collections. IPSMG:R.1966.61 – Sir Philip Meadows (1626–1718), c.1710, oil on canvas

An opportunity has arisen for the artwork to be fully conserved, framed and glazed for display at the location which Sir Philip Meadows resided, Conholt Park, Wiltshire. Conholt Park is a Grade II* listed building originally built in the 17th century.

Since it was bequeathed to Ipswich in 1966, staff have been unable to find any record of it having been on display. There are no plans for its future use, and it would greatly benefit from conservation work.

The artwork would be displayed in private museum owned by Mr Stephen A Schwarzman KBE, located in the former 18th century stable block and coach house (Grade II listed). It will sit alongside a private art collection and agreed loans from other institutions such as Wiltshire Museum. The artwork will be accessible to researchers looking into the Meadows family.

All environmental conditions will be met and all costs, including staff time, will be covered by the borrower. The cleaning and conservation of the artwork would be undertaken by an accredited conservator.

This loan provides an excellent opportunity for the work to be conserved and preserved for the future and the potential to build a relationship with a generous philanthropist.

It is suggested an initial loan period of one year is approved, after which staff can make a secondary visit to see the painting in situ and conduct a condition check. Should the conditions continue to be satisfactory and there are no planned uses for the painting it is recommended a three-year renewal loan is entered into by both parties.

Loan commences: September 2025.

Loan ends: Review date September 2026 and if satisfactory, extend to September 2029.

To approve the loan of the artwork.

Reason:

To allow for the artwork to be fully conserved, frames and glazed for display and to be accessible for researchers looking into the Meadows family.