Friday, April 19, 2013

NATONAL ORNAMENTAL METAL MUSEUM OF MEMPHIS.

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Yesterday we visited the National Ornamental Metal Museum. The only one of its kind in the United States. A second visit for me, I found it much bigger than it was in the 1980's. Double gates at the entrance are  a photo blog alone with about 168 spots to put a decorative disk within the swirl of the design. (I wish I knew the proper terms for gate structure.)
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Jim was sure I would photography all 168 pieces.
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I think that's why artists fascinate me. Each of these ornaments were done by different artists. One offers you a plate, or a cup of tea.
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While another may display a table setting, an artists easel or a human faced snail. Endlessly fascinating.
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They had two rooms with two different special exhibits of stellar. One had table sized sculptures the other a series of whirligigs.
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The gardens are fulled with beautiful plants and flowers and ornamental sculptures, or the work of students practicing on gates and practical pieces. Some are gigantic.
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This is called the Friendship Bridge.
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Around every corner a surprise.
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A stonehead with one eye. Imagination runs wild here. DSC04510 (Copy)
If I didn't mention it, the grounds are spectacular.
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Rusty metal, my dessert.
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In a third building, the museum houses its permanent acquisitions
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I'd love a padlock like this cute dog.
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Or this fanciful peacock lock. You can barely detect the mechanism.
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A cleverly decorated cleaver.
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Looks edible-almost.
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A beautiful doorway.
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One room here had all grills, and window and door treatments of great beauty.
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When you are in Memphis, don't miss this place. I took waaay too many pictures but if you are brave enough you can click on this album:
https://picasaweb.google.com/106530979158681190260/2013418NatiionalOrnamental

1 comment:

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