Huntington Library

We decided to do something totally different then the everyday normal activities. We went to the Huntington Library, in San Marino CA. Didnt know what to expect, but my friend Janet told me that there was an extensive collection of Illuminated Manuscripts on display. Well, we were in for a treat! 207 acres of well groomed gardens and buildings, right in the middle of the big city. You would think that you left the country from the gardens, and exhibits. What a treat. We took lots of pictures, I will share with you in the next few installments/posts (not sure how to upload more then 5 pics at a time!!)

First of all, we had the place to ourselves. Hardly anyone else was there, although with 207 acres, it is hard for crowds to form. In the first collection we were fortunate enough to see from the famed artist Thomas Gainsborough, "Pinkie" and "The Blue Boy". Simply amazing to see these portraits in real life. I am always amazed at how each and everyone of these portraits, their eyes always follow you.....creepy right?!

Onto the library next door, were there were several fabulous Illuminated Manuscripts. Absolutely gorgeous to see, the detail is out of this world, and to know that each and every page is just as gorgeous. In the last picture, this book is by Chaucer- "Canterbury Tales". Chaucer?!!! WOW. Also on display the Gutenburg Bible. They had close to 10 books from Shakespeare. Aristotle. Darwin. Imagine all these books, most written on Vellum. Ever so delicate. First editions! I am not much of a reader, but seeing these items was fascinating to me. I am thrilled I got to go and see these.

Stay tuned for the next few posts, I have much more to show you! Thanks again Janet for the suggestion.