Vidal Gore — Eighteen Seventy [869]

I was struck by the richness of everything and, in general, the good taste of the furnishings, though the pictures are not much good and the sculpture insipid. Nevertheless, the light from the splendid crystal chandeliers was reflected most magically in the many silver mirrors while everywhere there were fresh flowers—roses, orchids—and exotic plants, not to mention a proper conservatory just past the third drawing room. It is the perfect luxury to possess a complete tropical jungle in the midst of a freezing New York winter. — Vidal Gore, Eighteen Seventy, 869

Note

The rich description of the interior and décor provides a vivid sense of place, immersing the reader in the opulence of Mrs. Astor’s home, while also offering a glimpse of the narrator’s discerning perspective on luxury and taste.