Romance of the Bells" is an exceptionally beautiful art book and a superbly illustrated narrative on the California missions. The latest in a series of books on California art published by The Irvine Museum, "Romance of the Bells" illustrates the history of California's venerable missions through the eyes of artists working from 1850 to 1950. "It is a great pleasure to present this distinguished collection of paintings of the California missions as a joint endeavor of the Mission San Juan Capistrano and The Irvine Museum. The Capistrano mission is one of the oldest buildings in California, and I have always had a great affection for this historical treasure." "...I hope that those who read this book will enjoy the history and romance of California's treasured missions and appreciate the truly timeless quality of these beautiful paintings that are so much a part of California's history." Joan Irvine Smith, President, The Irvine Museum