Bling, noun: expensive and ostentatious possessions (Merriam-Webster).

The wealthy homes in Charleston in the early 1800’s were status symbols, each built and furnished with the best. It was the richest city in the US at the time.

Nathaniel Russel was a wealthy (slave) trader and merchant.

These images are from the breakfast room within his three story mansion in Charleston. The home is recognized as one of America’s most important Neoclassical houses. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1973.

Nathaniel Russell house, 1808.