In search of art

London, England The weather is beautiful today, but we chose to spend most of it inside, catching up on our art history.

The last few times we were here, the Sainsbury Wing of the National Gallery was still under renovation, and only some of its major works were temporarily available to see in the main museum.

We focused on the Renaissance and admired some of the stars.

Our time was limited due to a late start, but we admired several more eras, before moving on.

We went next to the Victoria and Albert Museum. quite frankly in hopes of finding a more rewarding gift shop. Lots of pretty things there, as well as in the National Gallery, but nothing as inventive or unusual as in days gone by. (Maybe we’re just jaded.)

We browsed around, after learning that the “Marie Antoinette Style” exhibit, as well as the Cartier, was sold out through November, we contented ourselves with the Marie Antoinette gift shop, and were not amused.

We chose to console ourselves with a tea break in the lovely V&A café. More on that from Don, who went from that to Evensong at Westminster Abbey.

Don’s Food and other matters Corner

Don’s report from Evensong at the Abbey:

Needless to say, it was impressive.

The Verger who gave us the tour on Saturday remembered me and got me a prime seat in the actual choir stalls — next to the area where the boys’ choir and men’s choir were placed. The boys looked and sang like little angels. The men were in good voice. The best part was when the boys’ choir had a section that was then “answered” by the men’s choir. These guys were rehearsed.

The entire service was done in High Episcopal style. Very high. My eyes were stinging from all the incense. Full communion was offered to anyone who wanted it. (There was a note in the program that gluten-free wafers were available.)

The elaborate and ancient service experienced in that ancient and historic building was both thrilling and moving. No photos allowed.

Food Corner

We didn’t eat much that could be reported on — except the scone and tea we had at the beautiful refreshment rooms at the V&A.

The scone itself, which was flavored with orange and currents, was a step above the hard little things served us at the Westminster Abbey café on Saturday. The V&A scone was huge (we shared just one) and it was much softer. In fact, it was a little cakey, which I consider a negative.

The other negatives were: 1. It wasn’t warm. 2. The clotted cream came in an institutional container that one could get in any grocery store.

I still think they can do better, so this gets a B+.