Eleanor Robson Belmont


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Full Name and Common Aliases

Eleanor Robson Belmont was an American actress, socialite, and collector of art and antiquities. She is also known as Mrs. Belmont.

Birth and Death Dates

Born on May 2, 1890, in New York City, Eleanor Robson Belmont passed away on July 26, 1979, at the age of 89.

Nationality and Profession(s)

Eleanor Robson Belmont was an American citizen by birth. Her profession spanned multiple fields: acting, social work, philanthropy, and collecting art and antiquities.

Early Life and Background

Growing up in a wealthy family, Eleanor Robson Belmont was exposed to the world of art and culture from an early age. Her parents encouraged her love for the arts, which would later become a defining aspect of her life. She studied acting at the New York School of Expression, laying the foundation for her future career.

Major Accomplishments

Eleanor Robson Belmont's accomplishments were multifaceted. As an actress, she appeared in numerous plays and films during the early 20th century, showcasing her talent on stage and screen. Her interest in art and antiquities led to a significant collection of rare artifacts, which she donated to institutions such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Notable Works or Actions

Belmont was an active member of various philanthropic organizations, supporting causes related to women's rights, education, and cultural preservation. One notable example is her involvement with the American Committee for Devastated France, where she served on the committee's board and contributed significantly to relief efforts during World War I.

Impact and Legacy

Eleanor Robson Belmont's impact extended far beyond her personal achievements. As a collector and patron of the arts, she helped preserve cultural heritage through her donations and support for various institutions. Her contributions to the world of art and antiquities continue to inspire new generations of collectors and enthusiasts. Moreover, her philanthropic efforts demonstrate the enduring power of individual commitment to making a positive difference in society.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

Eleanor Robson Belmont's quotes and writings reflect her deep understanding of the arts, culture, and social responsibility. Her thoughts on collecting, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting women's rights continue to resonate with audiences today. As a testament to her enduring legacy, Belmont's name is often associated with institutions she supported or institutions that now house portions of her collection.

In summary, Eleanor Robson Belmont was a multifaceted individual whose achievements spanned acting, philanthropy, and collecting art and antiquities. Her dedication to preserving cultural heritage and promoting social causes has left an indelible mark on society, making her widely quoted and remembered in the realms of art, history, and culture.

Quotes by Eleanor Robson Belmont

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An actor must communicate his author's given message--comedy, tragedy, serio- comedy; then comes his unique moment, as he is confronted by the looked-for, yet at times unexpected, reaction of the audience. This split second is his; he is in command of his medium; the effect vanishes into thin air; but that moment has a power all its own and, like power in any form, is stimulating and alluring.
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We use important words too frequently and they lose value; for instance, charm and great. An actor or musician often is proclaimedgreat when we really mean he is outstanding.
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Cathedrals are built with pennies of the faithful. A great opera house also is a spiritual center, a temple of sorts, where many gather together for recreation, education, and inspiration - a blessed trinity worthy of public support.
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There is a vital force in rumor. Though crushed to earth, to all intents and purposes buried, it can rise again without apparent effort.
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I was trained by my husband. He said, If you want a thing done go. If not send. I belong to that group of people who move the piano themselves.
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In retrospect, the past seems not one existence with a continuous flow of years and events that follow each other in logical sequence, but a life periodically dividing into entirely separate compartments. Change of surroundings, interests, pursuits, has made it seem actually more like different incarnations.
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An actor rides in a bus or railroad train; he sees a movement and applies it to a new role. The whole garment in which the actor hides himself is made of small externals of observation fitted to his conception of a role.
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A woman in agony of spirit might turn her head just so; a man in deep humiliation probably would wring his hands in such a way. From straws like these, drawn from completely different sources, the fabric of a character may be built.
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A private railroad car is not an acquired taste. One takes to it immediately.
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Never be afraid to meet to the hilt the demand of either work, or friendship - two of life's major assets.