ticketsMember | Make a donation

The Secrets of Belle's Boudoir: A Lioness, Her Pearls, and Her Museums—A Lioness

In 1881, Belle Worsham commissioned a magic space from leading New York City decorator George Schastey. With erotic symbols on all its surfaces, this room—now part of The Met collection—launched the most successful sexual career of the Gilded Age.
1 hour 3 min. watch

In 1881, Belle Worsham commissioned a magic space from leading New York City decorator George Schastey. With erotic symbols on all its surfaces, this room—now part of The Met collection—launched the most successful sexual career of the Gilded Age. Belle turned herself into one of the richest women in America, and a magnificent collector. At last, her whole scandalous story can be told.

This program is presented in conjunction with Artistic Furniture of the Gilded Age: Worsham-Rockefeller Dressing Room.

Recorded February 11, 2016

More from The Met

Black and white image with white text, with man wearing all black looking at the camera poised.
Video
Raul Lopez of LUAR Explores Superfine
October 21
An overhead view of the Kasubi Tombs in Kampala, Uganda. The woven, wattle and daub structure is surrounded by a forest on one side, and homes on the other with an empty lot directly in front.
Video
A Film Screening and Conversation on Africa's Cultural Landmarks | Michael C. Rockefeller Wing
Enjoy a selection of short films from a newly produced series on sub-Saharan Africa’s distinct landmarks and behind-the-scenes stories of the filmmaking process.
June 24
Aerial view of stone walls and trees at Great Zimbabwe
Video
New Galleries/Fresh Perspectives—A Conversation About Presenting Africa’s Cultural Landmarks
Join a filmmaker, curators, and an international correspondent to learn about a series of short films that foreground twelve of sub-Saharan Africa’s distinct landmarks.
June 12
More in:Women's HistoryLectures & Symposia