Henry and Margaret Plant filled the Tampa Bay Hotel with an eclectic collection of late 19th century paintings and treasures from Europe meant to impress the aristocratic guests and visitors. The hotel art gallery was located in the mezzanine over the rotunda or lobby and was filled with art works. The hotel was a prime example of the 19th century, an era of conspicuous consumption. More was best, too much was the norm and every wall was filled with art including paintings, tapestries and even painted tapestries. 

Click on any of the images below for more information on an item.