Monthly Archives: December 2013

As Nick is leaving Stourwater, Jean Duport somewhat awkwardly invites Nick to “dinner, or something,” with her husband Bob Duport.  Nick reflects on Jean’s manner: “she reminded me of some picture.  Was it Rubens and Le Chapeau de Paille: his … Continue reading →

On at least four occasions, different characters in Dance use alliterative contradictory pairings of artists’ names to emphasize ignorance of art. While this name dropping or name dissing may not be as important as other artistic references for understanding the … Continue reading →

During the portentous luncheon at Stourwater, Nick is struck by Lady Huntercombe, “whose features and dress had been designed to recall Gainsborough’s Mrs. Siddons.”[BM 209/199].  Later, at Stringham’s wedding to Peggy Stepney, Nick notices Lady Huntercombe to be “arrayed more … Continue reading →

Nick’s momentous first visit to Stourwater, the redoubt of Sir Magnus Donners, is occasioned by his inclusion in a luncheon party there in the company of  the Walpole-Wilsons.  “The dining room was hung with sixteenth century tapestries.  I supposed that … Continue reading →

Powell was a Trustee of the National Portrait Gallery for many years. In Dance, he returns again and again to portraits, which not only show a family’s history, status, and taste, but also provide a glimpse at the history of … Continue reading →