The Rape of Proserpina

[zafra52]

[ozimax]

The tourist lady on the right looks perplexed as to how to interpret this work of art. I imagine most people would be the same. I'm not sure what to say regarding the subject matter but I will say that sculptuers (sp?) are incredible artists. I have no idea how you would make one of these. Then again, I have trouble drawing a stick figure for my 2yo granddaughter.

[zafra52]

Thank you Ozi. The sculptor Bernini used just one piece Carrara marble to create this masterpiece and I can only tell you that it's breathtaking. The sculpture tells the myth of the god of the underworld, Pluto, catching by surprise the goddess of the grain, Proserpina with the intention of taking her for himself to the underworld. It's the tale explaining springtime. Unfortunately, I only took a photo (please don't ask why) and had to change it to black and white because the ceiling was too distracting.

Next time you are in Rome visit the Borghese Gallery. No words of pictures can make justice to the priceless work of art is there. We booked ahead before we left Australia and the sessions only last 3 hours max. As you session ends and you go out, the next enters the building. People that arrived without tickets expecting to buy them at the door were not able to get in.

[gstark]

Looking at this image, I can understand what you're saying about the ceiling; it looks spectacular.

And yes to Ozi's comment regarding the lady looking at this piece.

And thanks for the tip about booking for this gallery; I'm sure that will be helpful at some point in the future ... when we can wander beyond our front doors, without being accosted by the rozzers because we may want to do something illegal. Like checking on the wellbeing of one's 93yo mum. (don't ask, but yes)

[zafra52]

Sorry Gary. Things have started to look sunnier in the Sunshine State. As from this Wednesday coming, we will be able to visit our friend in the nursing home (we have the Enduring Power of Attorney) and considered his only family in Australia, but one person per resident per day. I hope your state follows in relaxing the quarantine restrictions soon and sensibly.

[ozimax]

Like checking on the wellbeing of one's 93yo mum. (don't ask, but yes)

100%. Robyn has spent the last 8 years as carer for her now 90yo dad. We've had to place him (reluctantly but of physical necessity) into high care just this month. Talk about hassle regarding visiting him and setting him up in his new life!!! Strange times indeed Gary. Hopefully things change for the better and soon.

[gstark]

Like checking on the wellbeing of one's 93yo mum. (don't ask, but yes)

100%. Robyn has spent the last 8 years as carer for her now 90yo dad. We've had to place him (reluctantly but of physical necessity) into high care just this month. Talk about hassle regarding visiting him and setting him up in his new life!!! Strange times indeed Gary. Hopefully things change for the better and soon.

Thanks, and yes. My mum doesn't want to go into care; she's happy in her home, and she now has a full time carer employed. If she's comfortable and happy, who's going to argue?

With the slightly relaxed rules, we're planning on visiting her for Sunday lunch

[ozimax]

My mum doesn't want to go into care; she's happy in her home, and she now has a full time carer employed. If she's comfortable and happy, who's going to argue?

Excellente.

We've cared for Robyn's dad for the last 8 years but unfortunately his health problems are too great to stay at home (he's 115kg and 6'3" and has severe mobility issues plus his heart and kidneys are kaput). Thankfully he is settling well into his new abode and is enjoying himself. Only one 30 minute visit per day but hopefully that will change soon.

[zafra52]

I must add that now we have to provide a certificate of flu vacillation, which luckily we had. Our friend was so glad to see us, but still could not understand why we could not get together in his room or go out to have coffee as before. At least our loved ones in the nursing homes don't feel neglected by their family and friends. Let's hope this estrange situation improves.