Roo Irvine

This podcast summarises 8000 years of the Mirror and its impact on civilisation.We don’t often realise the impact of the humble mirror, from helping shape our self-identity thousands of years ago, to affecting culture, superstition, and even war tactics. The mirror is a complex man-made creation that is fundamental in our human evolution. This podcast opens the door...

Today’s Podcast discusses the importance of Provenance.Provenance is a word often discussed in the Antiques world, and unless it is spelt out, finding out is the most fascinating kind of detective work. Provenance turns an everyday antique into a life-changing buy. Why is it so important and how do we find it?

This podcast looks at the legacy left after the Glasgow School of Art fire of 2018.Charles Rennie Mackintosh, one of Scotland’s most loved artists, was concentrated deep in the heart of Glasgow. His very spirit imitates in the vibrant city. How did the second School of Art impact his legacy, and what must be done to preserve his work, before it is lost forever. 

Today's Podcast takes you back to a sumptuous 17th century banquet.I request the pleasure of your acquaintance at a sumptuous feast. You shall be well-fed, well-entertained, and leave in the wee small hours with bellies full, minds sated, and hearts joyous. Bring your own cutlery. “Let the night teach us what we are. And the day what we should be” I await your RSVP. Yours, Lady Irvine, 5th November 1605 

Today's podcast discusses antiques as time travel and the importance of The Story.Let’s assign a new meaning to the term ‘Antique’. It means so much more than brass candlesticks, sitting unloved in a charity shop. Every Antique is a living, breathing story, - a piece of our past, our history, and it longs to talk to us… whisper its truth softly into our ear. Antiques are the most romantic form of time travel, - a bridge between our Then and our Now. We just need to open that door, and know the right questions to ask. Only then, can each Antique hold it’s head high, respectfully justified in its very existence. 

Today's podcast is about how The Grand Tour enriched our cultural heritage.How our Souvenirs have changed over the years. We bring back fridge magnets and keyrings. Our ancestors brought back Canalettoes and Italian Bronzes. Our country’s heritage and style owes so much to the Grand Tour- a cultural rite of passage for yesterday’s upper class. We owe so much to the decadent, extravagant Grand Tour that thrived from the 17th century. Cultural caviar, perhaps, but there is no denying our history is all the richer for the aristocratic gap-year taken by our fellow travellers, centuries ago. Come join me for a little tour of The Tour. 

Roo reads Sonnet 116, of love: First podcast - more of a test...watch this space