Anna Pavlova's choice of residence in London was likely not accidental. The "Ivy House" estate is located in the picturesque Golders Green area, known for the artists, scientists, and politicians who lived or worked there. During Pavlova's lifetime, one of the main attractions of the area was the old "Hendon" estate, which has now been turned into a park.
A year before purchasing, Pavlova rented "Ivy House" for the summer and appreciated the spacious house on the hill, the historic garden, and the surroundings of "Hampstead Heath," where she could enjoy fresh air and views of London. Nearby is "Kenwood House," owned by the Earls of Mansfield. The architect was Robert Adam, and the park's landscaping was created by Humphry Repton. Pavlova witnessed both the decline and restoration of this estate, which became a museum in 1927 with a collection of European paintings.
The two-story "Ivy House" is built of brick and finished with stone and wood. The second floor contained living quarters, while the first floor had a living room, kitchen, and utility rooms. The building, located on top of a hill, features symmetrical architecture and a terrace with views of London. The tall windows allowed Pavlova to admire the garden. The contrast of red brick and white plaster gives the house an English appearance.
Although Pavlova owned "Ivy House" for nearly twenty years, she rarely visited due to her tours. Nevertheless, she engaged in gardening, bringing plants from her travels. The garden had many tulips, which she loved. Floriculture was a way for her to transform the world around her.
Another passion of Pavlova's was birds, especially the swans that inhabited the garden pond. The snow-white swan Jack became the star of many photographs. Harcourt Algeranov recalled how a peacock would knock on the dining room window to be let in.
Pavlova often invited friends to the estate, hosting gatherings without excessive pomp. Her teacher E. Cechetti was a frequent guest. "Ivy House" was a creative laboratory where artists and sculptors worked. Pavlova engaged in sculpture and asked dancers to pose. In the house, she rehearsed with the ballet troupe and worked with her students. The studio was well-known among specialists. H. Algeranov described it as a former ballroom with a mirror and a piano. Pavlova observed lessons and rehearsals, and tired students were taken to see the swans. After classes, she would discuss art and literature with her students. The mansion housed costumes and decorations, as well as a projector for recording rehearsals.
Anna Pavlova remained connected to London even after her death. In the Golders Green area, where "Ivy House" is located, urns containing the ashes of Pavlova and her husband Victor Dandre are kept in a columbarium.
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