There is nothing better than arriving at the museum first thing in the morning, right at 10:00, just as they open. The smell of floor wax still fresh, and the morning sun casting long shadows through the skylights. If you walk purposefully, you just might make it to your destination before anyone else. Empty galleries. It only lasts for a little while, but it is bliss while it does.My destination last thursday morning: the newly-renovated American Wing at the Met. Quickly through the Medieval galleries, right through Arms and Armor, and there you are. An atrium full of light and sparkling Tiffany mosaics and glass ~ the gateway to three floors of period rooms. One of the best places to get lost for a few hours. The next best thing ~ a series of essays on the decorative arts.
Posts
4 comments:
How glorious. I've not yet made it to see so thanks for the enticement.
I know the feeling. On our last day in NYC a few years back, we were at the Met when it opened and made straight for the Temple of Dendur. We spent the entire day at the museum, ending with Manhattans on the rooftop while the sun set. At both ends of the day we were the only ones in the Temple and it was unforgettable.
Another link that will charm and inform. Thanks, JCB. I love the feeling of being up early in a strange city and watching it come alive (since NYC never sleeps, not so much). But being alone in a museum with so much treasure...bliss, indeed.
Such an evocative post Janet.
Post a Comment