Washington Winter Show 2023

48 The remarkable floral finial of the formal greenhouse is also a true co-production between Schlumberger and Bunny Mellon. Bunny Mellon’s passionate involvement in the artistic process is also demonstrated in her partnership with the French trompe l’oeil artist Fernand Renard, who she commissioned to paint a unique interior of the central vestibule of her formal greenhouse. Renard’s initial design was restrained. The faux shelves contained few objects. Bunny Mellon’s interventions were transformational. The shelves, now teal green rather than ochre, multiplied and became laden with objects that reflected Bunny Mellon’s interests and personality. Classical trompe l’oeil motifs, such as a nautilus and other coiled shells, sit alongside garden tools, vegetables, flowers in pots and much more. The whole conveys her passion for a gardener’s day-to- day interactions with plants. Somewhat like her recognition of the genius of Mark Rothko, Bunny Mellon recognized that Fernand Renard had a special talent. She sought to harness it to create something unique. She was equally prescient in recognizing the talent of the young Scottish artist Rory McEwen. It is well known that President John F. Kennedy asked Bunny Mellon to Oak Spring Garden Library, Old Wing, Brick Hall with several artworks and an antique table with original blue paint, arranged by Mrs. Mellon, 1997. Oak Spring Garden Foundation, Upperville, Virginia. Fred Conrad, photographer. Oak Spring Garden Library, Old Wing, Brick Hall with an arrangement of artworks, old farm table, plants, and other objects by Mrs. Mellon, 1997. Oak Spring Garden Foundation, Upperville, Virginia. Fred Conrad, photographer.