Technicolour Thames

Today it’s Faberge in London at the V&A. It’s impossible to hear the name without imagining those fabulously intricate Easter eggs, annual commissions from the Romanovs - and indeed the eggs are here, the final thrilling denouement of this stunning exhibition. 

But there is so much more, with a real focus on meticulous craftsmanship as much as ostentatious jewels. Indeed, some of the most remarkable pieces come from the carving of semi precious stones, and Faberge himself believed the value of an object lay with its beauty and craftsmanship rather than its stones and metals. 

As always, V&A create a magical atmosphere, and in the early rooms we emerge into the dream-like final days of the Romanovs, happy carefree faces of the young family smiling down at us. It’s a world where Russia has a central role in European culture and fashion - but of course it’s a world where the average Russian is poor, hungry and exploited. I feel a sense of loss and sadness to know this life comes to such a violent end - and with it the world of Faberge’s exquisite craftsmanship, but of course the extreme privilege of this world is wrong. 

It is the work of the young Alma Pihl that I find most beautiful - her snowflake jewellery and winter Easter Egg. The V&A have a wonderful short film about her - it’s well worth viewing though I’m afraid you’ll have to paste this link into your browser: 

https://www.vam.ac.uk/articles/fabergés-rare-gem-alma-pihl

You may be wondering where my Faberge photos are; no photography allowed for once - and I know my efforts would not have done the exhibition justice. 

Then there’s our evening and the Old Vic’s Christmas Carol. It’s tremendous fun and Stephen Mangan makes a wonderful Scrooge. Feeling Christmasy, we walk towards Trafalgar Square over Waterloo Bridge and see the Thames in technicolour glory. I can only assume the pink has been continued for Breast Cancer Awareness. 

We make it to Trafalgar Square as I’ve always wanted to see the Norwegian Christmas   Tree. Apparently many people feel this year’s tree is a little under par - and I must admit that, despite loving the tradition, I did feel a little underwhelmed! 

My main today is self explanatory, with more lights - seasonal and others -  in extras!