Bronze

This morning we went to the Royal Academy exhibition: Bronze.

Excellent! A huge range of works of art and artefacts have been gathered together in one place and what a remarkable collection it makes. What I most liked was the way the pieces have been displayed in themes, rather than date. So ancient could sit next to modern in comfort. A detailed and fascinating explanation of how bronze casting is carried out is a revelation and makes you appreciate the sheer skill and talent that is inherent in each piece. (Unfortunately there was no photography allowed in the exhibition and this was well monitored, so the poster and the building will have to serve.)

The only sadness was seeing the truly wonderful Crosby Garret Helmet, a piece demonstrating Roman metalwork at its finest. A splendid piece, it was found last year and unfortunately bought for a private collection, despite an immense local campaign to keep it in Cumbria. Looking at it in all it's splendour one is certain that it belongs in the public domain, in Cumbria where it came from. Money speaks as usual though - in a sad voice.