WHAT? Heiress: Sargent’s American Portraits

WHERE? Kenwood House, Hampstead Lane, Hampstead, London NW3 7JR

WHEN? Now until 5th October

WHY GO? For a touch of high society. If you love Downton Abbey, you’ll adore this glorious exploration of the American ‘dollar princesses’ that John Singer Sargent charged a fortune to portray—but of course, they had a fortune. These glamorous heiresses came to Britain between 1870 and 1914 to snag themselves a Lord or two.
Beautiful and rich, many succeeded in making their mark in British society—most notably the famed Nancy Astor, who entered politics as the first woman MP, and whose portrait is perhaps the most famous.
Less is known about many of the other American daughters of rich tycoons, like Grace, Marchioness Curzon, and Edith, Lady Playfair, all displayed regally in Kenwood’s stately rooms where they shine like the new aristocrats they became.
Sargent painted them all. He was the go-to artist of the day, and it is intriguing to see how he flattered them with sweeping brushstrokes, making the most of pale porcelain skin, ruby red lips and yards upon yards of rich duchess satin.
Kenwood, a jewel in the crown of English Heritage, offers Londoners a glimpse of bygone country life in a stately home, set in glorious parkland.
Those rich American daddies would undoubtedly approve of their darling daughters finding a spot in British history.

IN THE KNOW
There are Kenwood Highlight Tours three times a week providing an overview of the house and world-class art collection.
The landscaped gardens are a key attraction with meandering paths, acres of ancient woodland and, to rest up afterwards, the tempting Brew House Café—legendary for homemade tea-time treats.