They had an ideal relationship.  He made millions and she spent them.  Tastefully, of course.  A few Raphael’s here, some Picassos there, a Gutenberg. (The dealers of Dubeen adjust their ties nervously. “Miss Z.  is coming .”)
     And after a hard day of building the greatest art collection in America, the beautiful young woman and the old robber baron relaxed together in the grand library as she read him Bible stories....or so the official biography would have you believe.

"Cocktails with Leopards"
20" x 30"
Watercolor/Acrylic






"Emerald"

Mixed water based media and silver leaf on Canvas

11" x 14"

Cairo, 1924.  Emerald (just back from her excursion to the Valley of the Kings) flutters gorgeously around the ballroom at the Shepeards's Hotel in the arms of a rather callow subaltern.  Her prayer is answered when a distinguished gent clasps a huge tanned hand over her partner's epaulet.  Long muscular fingers.  "I'll take it from here, old chap."  Gratitude, then a thrill of recognition.  " You are my most wonderful discovery" says Howard Carter.

     Instant mystery and intrigue. I’m still waiting for Hollywood movies to rediscover the effect women wearing hats have on men.
     He was standing in cold wind with a pair of binoculars, hoping to catch a glimpse of her.  Turns out a monster fog rolls in.  “Historically thick” for that time of year. 
Saw nothing.
    Next day, he spotted her carrying a “manuscript” under her arm, apparently wearing what they call a cloche, just before she disappears around a corner.
    Next day, a spin past her house (a mansion, really), sees her behind tall hedges walking in wide circles, invisable except for her cloche. 
    The next day as he drove by, his car quit...couldn’t get it to start.  Guess who came out?