Afternoon At The Museum

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxROYAL CROWN
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THIS WAS THE DAY THAT
YOU WERE SUPPOSED TO
MEET ME ON THE STEPS
of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Remember? Afghanistan:
Hidden Treasures from
the National Museum,
Kabul. Now you remember!!
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So where were you? There I
was, clutching my red rose,
so you'd spot me...Well, since
you couldn't make it, I'll tell
you all about it.
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As I previously mentioned,
the exhibit celebrates the heritage
and rescue of precious treasures,
thought to have been stolen or
destroyed. Thankfully saved and
gathered, organized by the National
Geographic Society, and the National
Gallery of Art, Washington.
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Upon entering the exhibit, bright
lights find a huge Corinthian Capital,
limestone, 145 B.C. Found
at Ai Khanum.
Turning, one sees a fragment of a
glass bowl, clear, beautifully etched,
2200-1900 B.C. found at Tepe Fullol.
Next, a ceremonial plaque of Cybele
and Her Chariot, from the 3rd century B.C.,
shimmering with a gilded silver,
as if it were in the sunlight.
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An impressive Hemispherical Sundial,
limestone, large enough to sit on.
145 B.C., the fragment was actually
calibrated for Ai Khanum's Northern
Latitude.
Amazingly preserved, a tiny bone
statuette of a Nude Female,
6 inches tall, as detailed as if
it were life size. Ai Khanum.
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There were a number of fish-shaped
glass flasks, well preserved, used
as perfume bottles, which were
popular throughout the Roman Empire.
I would wish to have one of these,
just to dip into some seductive scent.
There was creamy alabaster dish,
with a Ram's head handle, Roman
tableware, used for offerings of wine
during ceremonies.
Dozens and dozens more spectacular
pieces, huge and tiny, gilt and glass.
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One of my favorites is shown above
in the photo. A Royal Crown, gold,
having belonged to a Princess, has
a remarkable and practical property.
It can be collapsed, taken apart into
6 separate sections for easy travel.
And then put together again,
when the Princess wishes.
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If this extraordinary exhibit finds its
way to your neighborhood museum,
run, do not walk...