Trills and disappointments in ParisArchived Message
Posted by Bob on October 22, 2014, 5:41 pm
I am just back from a trip to Paris where I had royal jewels-related plans. Some resulted in a big thrill and others in bitter disappointment.
I had planned to view the French Crown Jewels at the Louvres. Three guards directed me to three different exhibition rooms. After the fourth directed me to a yet different room, I requested that they consult with curatorial staff to confirm where their exact location. I was informed that the Crown Jewels are no longer on display for safety reasons. First big disappointment.
I was, however, informed that a few pieces were on display in the decorative arts section. There, I found Empress Eugenie's pearl tiara and one of the tassel diamond bow brooch, as well as the Duchess D'Anguouleme's emerald tiara. Now, that was a thrill. However, I found the pieces to be badly displayed and badly lit. They looked flat and had no sparkle. Second big disappointment.
The next day, I headed to the Bibliotheque Forney where is kept one copy of the catalogue of the Russian Crown Jewels that was created in 1923 in anticipation of the sale of the jewels. The reference librarian brought out a big, heavy, dusty box holding the four books of descriptions, and the four sets of life-size pictures of the jewels. I probably spent three hours pouring over all the photographs and the detailed descriptions. Now, THAT was a BIG thrill!