At the British Museum

I was super lucky to be staying only a street away from the British Museum on my recent trip to Europe.
I could see the dome from my window – I know!

courtyard

There is so much to see and absorb.

One of the most exciting things was to see the Mildenhall Treasure in person. I wrote about these many many moons ago, as the shape of the spoons were inspiration for a silversmithing project.

spoons from the Mildenhall Treasure

I also tried, it seems in vain, to photograph the beautiful jewels in the Waddesdon Bequest. The enameling on the back of three of the gorgeous jewels was stunning … and naturally I failed to be able to photograph it, so below is the collection image.

click on image for original source

Love this place.

Another holiday snap

My lovely and thoughtful friend has sent me another image from the V&A British Museum in London (see my previous one).

They are striking and beautiful objects. Though the description below may be a bit creepy for some.

image with permission of photographer; not to be reproduced without permission

image with permission of photographer; not to be reproduced without permission

I did a little reading on St Eustace. He (yes, I thought it was a lady too) was subject to a “series of calamities followed to test his faith: his wealth was stolen; his servants died of a plague; when the family took a sea voyage, the ship’s captain kidnapped Eustace’s wife Theopista; and as Eustace crossed a river with his two sons Agapius and Theopistus, the children were taken away by a wolf and a lion” … that’s a bit rough, but apparently he never lost his faith, which is partly why he’s considered special.

I’m a bit worried that my friend now is under the impression that I like reliquaries … mmm, I don’t want that getting around! It is true though that I am fascinated by the work and dedication committed to creating an idol of the bones and bits from individuals considered special (though sadly the bones are often misattributed). The sociological aspect is interesting yes?