Postcard from London, England: Journeying inside the V&A

Above: Reflections in the viewing mirror installed above the Ardabil carpet, a commission for the ruling Shah of Iran made by Maqsud Kashani about 1540

One of the most popular spots in the Victoria and Albert Museum is the long sofa next to the ancient Ardabil carpet. While the rug’s design is exquisitely executed with about 3,500 wool knots per square inch, for many, the bench is the main attraction. Ah, the chance to reflect and rest. We were fortunate to have the time to visit more than once during our stay.

It’s easy to be bowled over by the swirling, shimmering colors of Dale Chihuly’s immense contemporary glass chandelier suspended under the graceful dome of the grand entrance hall to the museum. The sheer size of the 1862 iron choir screen from the Hereford Cathedral addressing the space competes for your attention.

Measuring 36 feet in length and weighing more than seven tons, the metalwork took more than a year to install in the museum in 2001. A sixteenth-century, six-foot tall marble sculpture of Jason beckons you toward the Renaissance galleries with another huge choir screen, this one adorned with alabaster carvings.

Faced with such showy pieces, it’s hard to force yourself to slow down to enjoy the intricate details of both large and small works. Among my favorites are panels portraying a 14-century German artist’s vision of “The Apocalypse;” an ivory-handled ladle from Sri Lanka; a pair of 16th-century miniature wax portraits representing youth and age; and a 19th-century ceramic tile from Iran depicting a well-chaperoned courtship.

And I love the prominent placement of Thomas J. Price’s sculpture.

On right: “Moments Contained,” Thomas J. Price, bronze, 2022

This is a sculpture about statues.”

Thomas J. Price

“Who gets to be represented in public spaces? With this work, Thomas J. Price responds to a long history of glorifying individuals or ideologies through sculpture. By celebrating a fictional woman in casual sportswear, Price challenges the marginalization of those who have not traditionally been represented in public spaces. The character’s poise and attitude are easily relatable, bringing attention to the shared moments we experience and what connects us as a society.”

Curator signage

A museum for everyone. Amazingly admission-free.