The Astors were a family of great philanthropists and collectors.  In England in the 1920s and 1930s Cliveden was at the centre of the social and artistic elite.  In America the Astor family’s largesse was legendary, including setting up the New York Public Library.  The star of the 20th century was Brooke Astor, who donated throughout her long life, dying at 105.  

The coldest month of the year inspired a surge of interest among the Romantic writers and artists of the 19th century.   From William Cowper and the warmth of the fireplace, to Casper David Friedrich and the sublimity of the winter landscape and Henry Raeburn and his iconic skating scenes, we will learn why they were so keen on the frosty season.