Episode Description:

In this episode, The Duchess meets Viscountess Gage of Firle Place. Lady Gage share with us the incredible art collection at Firle, we learn about the eclectic female poet that became a central figure in Christian mysticism. Emma also talks to Lady Gage about why Firle Place is considered by many to be one of prettiest houses in the country.

Top Quotes:

“There’s an endless movement and evolution in the use of these homes. They defy the notions of permanence.” - Lady Gage

“Prince Philip used to call Firle Place the prettiest little house he ever knew.” - Lady Gage

About the Guest and Stately Home:

Alexandra, Viscountess Gage is the current custodian of Firle Place with her husband, Nicholas, 8th Viscount Gage. The couple married in 2009 and have one son together. Alongside being custodian of Firle, Lady Gage has her own skincare range called 'Beauty Energy Balms', made by hand on the estate from herbs grown in the garden. Of the collection she says: “I would say that it’s been a labour of love, except that it’s felt like more love than labour,” The products are on Firle’s website and in the gift shop.

The history of Firle Place is the history of the one family; the Gages. The house was built by Sir John Gage in 1473 and there have been Gages at Firle ever since. During the Tudor period, Sir John Gage, KG (1479-1556) had a distinguished political career. He served as Governor of Calais and Constable of the Tower of London. The transformation of Firle from a Tudor manor to an elegant Georgian home, was the work of Sir William Gage in the early 18th century and completed by his cousin, the 1st Viscount Gage, who inherited the estate in 1744. Major interior features include the neo-classical Drawing Room, designed by William Kent, and the Long Gallery, the work of Scottish architect Colen Campbell. The Long Gallery displays the internationally important Cowper Collection of fine art, amassed by the 3rd Earl Cowper, one of the great art collectors of the 18th century. The house is also known for its beauty and wonderful collection of books.

About the Host:

Emma, Duchess of Rutland, grew up far away from the world of the aristocracy. Born Emma Watkins, the Duchess grew up the daughter of a Quaker farmer, in the Welsh countryside. She trained as an opera singer in the Guildhall School of Music, and worked as a successful interior designer before meeting her future husband David Manners, the 11th Duke of Rutland, at a dinner party. Their marriage in 1992 thrust Emma into a new world, which included the responsibility of preserving one of the nation's greatest stately homes: Belvoir Castle. While simultaneously running the day to day operations of the castle, and raising five children, the Duchess became fascinated with the history and importance of the other stately homes of the UK. Join Emma as she embarks on a wonderful journey through time, to learn more about the incredible homes that have defined Great Britain and, most importantly, meet the other extraordinary women who work tirelessly in the background, to preserve their homes history and magic for future generations.

Resources:

https://firle.com/

https://www.belvoircastle.com/

https://www.onefineplay.com/

https://www.emmaduchessrutland.com/

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