William Kent (1685-1748) was great without a hint of gravitas, a con man who became one of the artistic geniuses of his age. He was a high camp Yorkshire bachelor, brought back by Lord Burlington from an artistic apprenticeship in Rome where he had painted for a cardinal and won prizes from a pope.
Exploring the duality of William Beckford's existence, the narrative contrasts his sensational real life with the refined persona he crafted in retirement. Inspired by a provocative work from a young Disraeli, Beckford's fabricated identity intertwines with themes of desire and artistic expression, revealing the complexities of his character and the era's societal norms. This intriguing tale delves into the interplay between reality and artifice, showcasing Beckford's influence on literature and his own legacy.
The period from Elizabeth I's accession to James I's death marks a transformative era in English architecture, characterized by the delayed influence of the Renaissance. This evolution is reflected in domestic architecture and interior design, showcasing the development of a distinctively English architectural style that emerged during this time. The book delves into the cultural and artistic shifts that shaped this unique architectural identity.
Staffordshire is usually associated with the Potteries and the Black Country, the industrial heartland of the Midlands, yet it is also a county of gently rolling landscape with some of the most eccentric gardens in the country.