An embarrassment of riches

London, England If ever there was a person who should have had a yard sale, Sir John Soane might be at the top of the list.

Sir John was a visionary Regency architect whose house has been a national museum since the early 19th century. Preserved just as Soane left it in 1837, the Museum showcases his extraordinary collection of paintings, sculptures, casts, artifacts, books, and models from around the world.

I was there many years ago, but nothing has changed except me since my last visit. Well, there is one other thing — in the current style of naming conventions, the museum is now known as “The Soane.” Saves on typing, I guess. Additionally, there may be a bit more dust in the corners.

To say Sir John was a collector is a bit of an understatement. The house is really three houses joined together, jam-packed with every type of collectible. I know I took a risk coming on a Saturday, but it was interesting to see how long the line was – and it never shortened.

The rooms were modified by Soane with ingenious devices to channel and direct daylight and to expand space, including walls that open out like cabinets to display some of his many paintings.

It’s quite difficult to know which way to turn, but every corner delights and amuses.

There are actual rooms suitable for living and entertaining, all decorated just as they were at his death.

The most exciting thing, from my point of view this time, was the sarcophagus of Egyptian King Seti I (1303 – 1290 BC), imported from the Valley of the Kings, just after Seti’s tomb was discovered. I can’t imagine why Egypt isn’t demanding its return. Maybe they realize how hard it would be to remove from its basement chamber.

So hard to capture the drama and complexity of this museum of curiosities and wonders. (Also hard to get enough distance to photograph.)

But it’s worth a visit to soak in Sir John’s passion for antiquities and beautiful objects.

It is a miracle it’s has been preserved perfectly all these years.