Valance

Textile

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The Arts Club of Washington Collection

Valance, silk, made by Nelson Beck of Washington, 20th c.: Window valance or lambrequin with a central swag and side tails, edged with tassels, are draped over a rod spanning the width of the window.
Valance, silk, made by Nelson Beck of Washington, 20th c.

Window valance or lambrequin with a central swag and side tails, edged with tassels, are draped over a rod spanning the width of the window.

Name/Title

Valance

Context

The valances were especially made for these rooms by Nelson Beck Upholsterers whose principals Nelson and Dorothy Wurz were Club members. Valances and decorative swags were popular window treatments when the house was occupied by the Monroe's, reflecting the fashion in Neoclassical design popularized by Robert Adam.

Made/Created

Manufacturer

Nelson Beck of Washington

Textile Details

Notes

The tassels are notable, being hand-tied in Portugal, today's sole source of such period-accurate window trimming.

Dimensions

Height

43 in

Width

52 in

Depth

10 in

Location

Building

106 South Gallery

Update Date

December 11, 2025