Five centuries of private collecting are represented in this publication of some of the finest art treasures preserved in Britain's historic houses. In addition to paintings by Canaletto, Van Dyck, Claude Lorrain, Gainsborough, Stubbs, Augustus John, and Lucian Freud, more unusual works include a death mask of Napoleon, a life mask of Charles I by Bernini, and a bracelet inset with portrait miniatures of Queen Victoria's children. Over 90 objects and paintings are presented from over 50 houses, including Blenheim Palace, Castle Howard, Chatsworth, Harewood House, and Longleat.