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

53 in

Width

37 in

Depth

6 in

Location

Building

105 North Gallery

Update Date

November 11, 2025