Thorne Miniature Rooms — is a collection of approximately 100 room models created between 1932 and 1940 under the guidance of Narcissa Niblack Thorne. Most of these rooms (68) are now exhibited at the Art Institute of Chicago, another 20 at the Phoenix Art Museum, 9 at the Knoxville Museum of Art, and one each at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. These miniatures depict interiors of Europe from the late XIII century to the 1930s and America from the 17th century to the 1930s. All rooms are scaled at 1:12 and made from the same materials as authentic interiors.
Narcissa Niblack Thorne was inspired to create miniatures by her uncle, Vice Admiral Albert Parker Niblack, who brought her antique miniature objects from various parts of the world. Her fascination with miniature furniture and accessories began around 1900. At 19, she married James Ward Thorne, an heir to Montgomery Ward department store, which provided her with the financial means to develop this hobby. In the 1930s, Narcissa began studying architecture and decorative arts of different eras to create accurate models of historical rooms.
During the Great Depression, Thorne collaborated with leading American architects and artisans who helped her create these rooms. The first 30 models were displayed at the "Century of Progress" exposition in Chicago in 1933. They generated great interest, which prompted further development of the collection. In 1954, the miniatures became a permanent part of the Art Institute of Chicago’s exhibition.
Some rooms in the collection are replicas of real interiors, making them even more impressive. Each room features high detail, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the era it depicts. Used materials reflect authenticity: here you can find silver bowls shining in the light and crystal chandeliers impressive with their delicacy.
Additionally, some rooms contain original works of art, further enhancing the collection’s value. Among them are miniature paintings and sculptures created by renowned artists, providing not only aesthetic but also historical significance. These details highlight Narcissa Niblack Thorne’s craftsmanship and her pursuit of creating as accurate and authentic reproductions of interiors from various epochs as possible, making these rooms not just works of art but true masterpieces that inspire admiration in everyone who sees them.
In 2010, the Art Institute of Chicago started decorating several rooms for Christmas, Hanukkah, and New Year using appropriate decorations for each period, reflecting Thorne’s love for festive traditions.
Current information:
Address: 431 N Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
Contacts: +1 (312)-624-3014
Working hours:
Mon-Sun 11:00-00:00 (11:00 AM - 12:00 AM)
