Publisher's Synopsis
The Beldonald Holbein is a novel written by the renowned American author, Henry James. The story is set in the mid-19th century and revolves around the lives of two sisters, Gertrude and Charlotte Steddman. The sisters are the daughters of a wealthy businessman who has recently passed away, leaving them with a substantial inheritance. Gertrude is the elder sister and is portrayed as a strong-willed and ambitious woman who is determined to make a name for herself in the world. Charlotte, on the other hand, is more reserved and content to live a quiet life. The sisters are both interested in art and have a particular fascination with a painting by the famous artist, Hans Holbein, which is rumored to be in the possession of a reclusive collector named Mr. Beldonald. The story follows the sisters as they embark on a journey to meet Mr. Beldonald and try to acquire the painting. Along the way, they encounter a number of interesting characters, including a young artist named Arthur Lloyd, who becomes infatuated with Gertrude. As the sisters get closer to their goal, they begin to realize that Mr. Beldonald is not what he seems and that there may be more to the painting than they initially thought.The Beldonald Holbein is a classic Henry James novel that explores themes of love, ambition, and the pursuit of art. The novel is known for its intricate plot and complex characters, as well as its vivid descriptions of the art world of the 19th century. Overall, it is a captivating read that will appeal to fans of James' other works, as well as anyone interested in art and culture.""But has she any idea herself, poor thing?"" was the way I had put it to Mrs. Munden on our next meeting after the incident at my studio; with the effect, however, only of leaving my friend at first to take me as alluding to Mrs. Brash's possible prevision of the chatter she might create. I had my own sense of that--this provision had been nil; the question was of her consciousness of the office for which Lady Beldonald had counted on her.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.