If there’s one thing Edith Wharton knew how to do—besides penning novels that defined an era—it was appreciating beauty. In her 1904 work, Italian Villas and Their Gardens, Wharton takes us on an exquisite journey through the iconic gardens of Italy, blending her trademark wit with an architect’s precision. It’s a book that doesn’t just admire; it observes, critiques, and celebrates, all in one gorgeously written swoop.

Wharton wasn’t content with a casual stroll through the gardens; she sought to understand them. Her essays unravel the artistry behind every hedge, every fountain, and every artfully placed cypress tree, revealing how Italian landscapes were designed not just to please the eye but to inspire the soul. These gardens were living canvases, where architecture and nature danced in perfect harmony—a far cry from the sprawling lawns of English estates or the rigid geometries of French formal gardens.

For Carthay Studio’s collection, we’ve handpicked illustrations from this historic work, each offering a window into Wharton’s vision of elegance. Every print reflects the meticulous lines and romantic charm that make these villas timeless. Whether it’s the sweeping views of Villa Medici or the intimate terraces of Villa d’Este, the artistry captures a sense of place that feels both grand and personal.

This isn’t just about nostalgia, though. Wharton’s perspective speaks to modern sensibilities, reminding us that design isn’t about trends—it’s about timelessness. And isn’t that what we’re all chasing when we look for art that resonates?

These prints aren’t just décor; they’re a call to slow down, sip an espresso (or something stronger), and imagine yourself in the midst of sun-dappled Italy, surrounded by beauty that transcends time.