Celebrated the world over for dexterous works across the arts, Benvenuto Cellini struck a virtuoso performance through the skill of his hand and the intricate workings of his mind. That ‘the devil is in the detail’ duly applies to this polymath. For example, consider Perseus with the head of Medusa, a feat in bronze with … Continue reading Pass the Salt: Cellini’s Famed Salt Cellar
Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of West Wycombe as an architectural study is the fact that the classical theme of its exterior is greatly extended by the design of its lavish interiors. What becomes apparent from this activity is that, constructing a country house in the 18th century was a complex operation – determined not … Continue reading West Wycombe Park – The Interiors
Here's something that I haven't spoken on before - my talks. Granted, I never thought I could be a speaker until I actually did it. I was kindly asked by a local WI group to have a chat around what was, at the time, my dissertation topic: The Dollhouse in 17th century Amsterdam and the … Continue reading She Noted – My WI Talks
Running a household in Victorian England had become a science – with tasks to be delegated and a system of categorised activity for those at every level of society. When Girouard writes of the eminent concern for ‘morality, domesticity, organisation and hospitality’[1] in the country house the emphasis is on the rigid upholding of standards … Continue reading The Victorian Country House: Morality, Domesticity & Organisation
