Tag: Arts & Tradition

Henrietta Maria: Patroness Who Transformed English Culture

Henrietta Maria arrived in England after her wedding to King Charles I, who was one of the greatest royal art connoisseurs in history. Descending from the family of preeminent Renaissance patrons, the Medici of Florence, the new queen became a devoted patron to the arts, literature, and architecture in 17th-century England. “Queen Henrietta Maria,” 1636,…


Drayton Hall: Rich in Southern History

Despite nearly three centuries in existence, Drayton Hall (built between 1738 and 1750) on the Ashley River in Charleston, South Carolina, lives on and, in fact, is an active archeological site. Seven generations of the Drayton family have lived in the home. The original owner, John Drayton was born in nearby Magnolia Plantation, which the family still…


Thomas Cole Unbound: Biography of America’s Revered Landscape Painter

Born in England’s industrial northeast in 1801, artist Thomas Cole emigrated to America as a young man. Here, he found a country brimming with unchartered and untamed wilderness. His masterful handling of light, composition, and aerial perspective captured the sublime character of the American wilderness. Cole found his unique place as one of the first…


Centuries of Treasure Bindings: Books Adorned With Beauty

“Don’t judge a book by its cover” is a popular adage that can be compellingly applied to many situations. However, its wisdom misses the mark in the context of treasure bindings. Treasure bindings, also known as jeweled bindings, are a type of bookbinding where covers are adorned with lavish materials which can include gems, silver,…


The Best of the West

Since 1973, the world’s finest Western painters and sculptors have captured cowboy culture for the “Prix de West Invitational Art Exhibition & Sale,” preserving Western traditions and way of life far beyond the plains, prairies, and mountains—and hopefully for generations to come. The 51st exhibition and sale is now open at the National Cowboy &…


Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for June 23–29

This week, we feature a real-life story about the dream of an eccentric motorcyclist and a rousing drama about a boxer making a comeback. New Release ‘Warhorse One’ Navy SEAL Master Chief Richard Mirko (Johnny Strong) is conducting a rescue operation in Afghanistan when his helicopter is shot down by insurgents. Mirko is the only…


Stained Glass and the Stories They Tell

Since ancient Rome, stained glass windows have been valued for their beauty. With the creation of sacred windows in houses of worship, this art form reached its peak during the Middle Ages, inspiring the faithful with their luminous narratives. As the centuries progressed, stained glass became a fixture in private homes, was later revived, and…


Galapagos and Africa: Nature Is Here

The South American islands that inspired Charles Darwin are home to 21 endemic species of birds, giant tortoises, iguanas, and penguins. There is another place on earth that can rival the beauty of the Galapagos—Africa! …


Sunsets Over the Spanish Islands

On an extraordinary journey among Spain’s most beautiful islands to appreciate their sea, customs, fiery sunsets, and diverse cultures, we will visit Ibiza, Formentera, Gran Canaria, and Tenerife—a fascinating and comprehensive journey. …


An Aestival Festival: Some Poems for the Summer

From generals to lieutenants, the best military commanders study the lay of the land and the weather ahead of any mission. How steep are the hills? Are the valleys bare of vegetation or thick with vines and trees? What’s the heat index? Is rain likely? Failure to account for these factors can lead to defeat…