Worthwhile Activity: London's Victoria & Albert (V&A) Museum - art, fashion, and design

It's hard to pick a favorite museum in a historic city full of lovely museums. But it's such a worthwhile activity since most museums in London are free.

But the V&A is definitely up there because it showcases an eclectic mix of art, architecture, and design spanning a few centuries.  I love seeing more than one medium at a time and especially loved the photography and artifacts from centuries ago (like the fancy Backgammon set and comb below).  The V&A is also a small to medium sized museum so it's not terribly overwhelming and can be leisurely be perused in a few hours. 

We entered the main hall and were presented with a piece from the exhibit, Decode.  This exhibit explores and uses computer code to create fluid pieces of work.  There is supposed to be a hidden message here, but I don't see it.  Do you?

One of my favorite pieces was this photograph of Lily Cole.  I think this was a Tim Walker photo (he loves surrealist photography).  Fashion model and the camera in equal proportions.

They actually transported this amazing 18th century staircase to the museum.  Wow.

Another highlight was a room dedicated to full size clay reproductions.  Wow, look at this pillar.

Finally I loved the small everyday objects from centuries ago...
...the loveliest comb with intricate carvings

...and the prettiest Backgammon set ever

...finally to the loveliest piano ever.

As always, though the museum is free special exhibits may require a fee.
Cromwell Road
London SW7 2RL
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