everyday is a doodle day 838 by bogatyrkhan on DeviantArt (original) (raw)

Ah, so this is where most of the fancy imported goods are displayed! That makes sense -- the parlor or reception room was where you show off your status, success, and taste. The first thing that catches the eye is of course the pianoforte -- something that no gentleman or lady would be without. It must be a nightmare to keep it tuned and playable in the tropical clime, but the effort is a necessary sacrifice! Then we have a very large looking glass in an elaborate gilt frame. Transporting such a thing probably cost as much as the object itself! To either side are statues, likely made of bronze and depicting allegorical figures of what I take to be Modesty and Vanity. Moral lessons with a little frisson are always appreciated by the person of refinement! The console table and sideboard look a little too elegant to be the work of local craftsmen, and I suspect the clock is an expensive import as well. Finally, there are the prints and paintings, all designed to reflect Nat's place in the world.

Despite this display, Nat's parlor still has an air of pleasant informality about it. There is a table laid out for impromptu meetings, a game of chess in progress, and both tea and alcohol for those in need of refreshment. A pair of friendly cats roams about, breaking the ice and inviting unscheduled pats on the head from even the most punctilious visitor. The windows are open, allowing birdsong and scented breezes to enter the room, and perhaps even the occasional exotic butterfly or moth. All-in-all, this room seems to be a most enjoyable place! Excellent work as always, my good sir!