THE NATIONAL ORNAMENTAL METAL MUSEUM.

Yesterday we visited the National Ornamental Metal Museum. The only one of its kind in the United States. A second visit for me, I found it much bigger than it was in the 1980’s. Double gates at the entrance are  a photo blog alone with about 168 spots to put a decorative disk within the swirl of the design. (I wish I knew the proper terms for gate structure.)

Jim was sure I would photography all 168 pieces.

I think that’s why artists fascinate me. Each of these ornaments were done by different artists. One offers you a plate, or a cup of tea.

While another may display a table setting, an artists easel or a human faced snail. Endlessly fascinating.

They had two rooms with two different special exhibits of stellar. One had table sized sculptures the other a series of whirligigs.

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The gardens are fulled with beautiful plants and flowers and ornamental sculptures, or the work of students practicing on gates and practical pieces. Some are gigantic.

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This is called the Friendship Bridge.

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Around every corner a surprise.

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A stonehead with one eye. Imagination runs wild here.

If I didn’t mention it, the grounds are spectacular.

Rusty metal, my dessert.

In a third building, the museum houses its permanent acquisitions

I’d love a padlock like this cute dog.

Or this fanciful peacock lock. You can barely detect the mechanism.

A cleverly decorated cleaver.

Looks edible-almost.

A beautiful doorway.

One room here had all grills, and window and door treatments of great beauty.

When you are in Memphis, don’t miss this place. I took waaay too many pictures but if you are brave enough you can click on this album:
https://picasaweb.google.com/106530979158681190260/2013418NatiionalOrnamental