This week we have examples of the decorative arts in Persephone Books. Domestic interiors, objects, and design schemes are used by authors to guide the reader, reveal character and situation, and reflect the times and fashions of their era. This painting, The Artist's Wife (c1935) by Gerald Gardiner (1902-59, The Wilson), is how we might imagine Celia's warm, comfortable front room in the family's suburban semi in They Knew Mr Knight. With its lively fire, glass-fronted bookcase, and hyacinth bowls on the windowsill, it reflects her ‘capacity for contentment’, and sets up a marvellous prelude to the story that follows.