A yard or two farther, we pass the hostelry of the Black Eagle, and, glancing as we pass through the square door of marble, deeply moulded, in the outer wall, we see the shadows of its pergola of vines resting on an ancient well, with a pointed shield carved on its side; and so presently emerge on the bridge and Campo San Moisè, whence to the entrance into St. Mark’s Place, called the Bocca di Piazza (mouth of the square), the Venetian character is nearly destroyed, first by the frightful ...

SHAKESPEARE was familiar with two kinds of gardens: the stately and magnificent garden that embellished the castles and manor-houses of the nobility and gentry; and the small and simple garden such as he had himself at Stratford-on-Avon and such as he walked through when he visited Ann Hathaway in her cottage at Shottery. The latter is the kind that is now associated with Shakespeare's name; and when garden lovers devote a section of their grounds to a "Shakespeare garden" it is the small,...

There is something very fascinating about a violin. This graceful, delicate instrument, which is a marvel of strength, notwithstanding its frail appearance, is beautiful to look at and its voice is lovely to hear. It is often said that the voice of a violin is so greatly admired because its tones offer the nearest approach to the human voice; but if you think the matter over you will, perhaps, agree with me that the tones of a beautiful violin do not resemble those of a human voice and tha...

Great Pictures, As Seen and Described by Famous Writers is a curated collection of art criticism compiled by Esther Singleton, offering readers insightful perspectives on some of the most renowned paintings in Western art. The book brings together descriptions and analyses from famous writers, poets, and critics, who share their personal interpretations of these iconic works. Through these written reflections, the paintings are brought to life in vivid detail, allowing readers to engage wi...

How to Visit the English Cathedrals by Esther Singleton is an elegant and insightful guide that transforms ordinary travel into a rich cultural and historical journey. This beautifully crafted work invites readers to explore the grandeur of England’s cathedrals with a deeper understanding of their architecture, heritage, and spiritual significance. Singleton’s engaging narrative not only directs the traveler but also enriches the experience by revealing the stories, artistry, and symbolism...

In "French and English Furniture: Distinctive Styles and Periods Described and Illustrated," Esther Singleton meticulously examines the intricate evolution of furniture design across France and England. Employing a descriptive literary style enriched with vivid illustrations, Singleton delineates the stylistic divergences and similarities rooted in cultural contexts, historical periods, and artistic movements. The book spans various eras, from Medieval to Rococo, and highlights influential...

In "The Standard Galleries - Holland," Esther Singleton offers an insightful exploration of Dutch art galleries, weaving together a narrative that is rich in historical context and artistic significance. Drawing on her extensive knowledge of European art, Singleton crafts a literary landscape that captures the essence of Holland's artistic heritage. The book deftly combines vivid descriptions with analytical depth, navigating the intricacies of notable artworks and the evolution of art mov...

There are no beginnings of art in Italy. The old civilizations of Etruria, Rome, and Byzantium never perished entirely; and upon their surviving traditions “Christian Art” was built. Old pictorial ideas and old decorative motives were absorbed, rearranged, and worked over again and again in conjunction with theological dogma until in the Thirteenth Century, largely owing to the beautiful character, ideals, and influence of St. Francis, to the intellectual teachings of Dante, and to the fer...

In "French and English Furniture: Distinctive Styles and Periods Described and Illustrated," Esther Singleton presents an extensive exploration of the evolution of furniture design from both countries, emphasizing the cultural influences that shaped these distinctive styles. With meticulous illustrations and detailed descriptions, Singleton delves into various periods, from the opulent Baroque of France to the understated elegance of English Georgian. The book serves not only as a visual f...

The Complete Works of Esther SingletonThis Complete Collection includes the following titles:--------1 - The Standard Galleries - Holland2 - Dutch and Flemish Furniture3 - French and English furniture4 - The Shakespeare Garden5 - How to Visit the English Cathedrals

We were surrounded by five and twenty boatmen, each of whom exerted himself to get our custom: these were the ciceroni of the Blue Grotto. I chose one and Jadin another, for you must have a boat and a boatman to get there, the opening being so low and so narrow that one cannot enter unless in a very small boat. The sea was calm, nevertheless, even in this beautiful weather it broke with such force against the belt of rocks surrounding the island that our barks bounded as if in a tempest, a...

There is something very fascinating about a violin. This graceful, delicate instrument, which is a marvel of strength, notwithstanding its frail appearance, is beautiful to look at and its voice is lovely to hear.It is often said that the voice of a violin is so greatly admired because its tones offer the nearest approach to the human voice; but if you think the matter over you will, perhaps, agree with me that the tones of a beautiful violin do not resemble those of a human voice a...