A couple of updates

Some of you may recall this post, from ‘way back in February. I was supposed to let you know if I was able to see the “column of infamy”.

You were a very naughty boy, Bajamonte

After many visits, emails and phone calls to the office of the Director of MUVE  (Fondazione Musei Civici di Venezia), I was given permission by Doctor Tonini to see the column, in the Ducal Palace.

At 10 on the appointed morning, which was just 3 days before I was leaving Venice to return home, I was met by a custodian of the Palace and escorted up stairs, down stairs, through passages and locked doors until we finally reached the magazzino where this relic of history (and lots of other tempting artifacts) were stored. I wish you could see the huge key he used to open the door of the treasure trove!

Tucked away into a dusty corner, not looking at all important, we finally found what is left of the column. It was about a metre high, with steel reinforcing beams visible. The side with the inscription was facing the wall, unfortunately, but what I could see was very faint and worn. I was so aware of the privilege I had been granted to be able to see this column I’d only read about. I hope one day it will be restored, and placed back into the Campo Sant’Agostin.

My only regret is that I was not allowed to take a photo to share with you. But, I have the image of the column in my mind’s eye: that can’t be taken from me.

The other subject is much closer to home, and I’m free to take photos whenever I want to. I have to report that absolutely nothing is happening to this little pupa, but I don’t know how long it should be before the little creature emerges. Is the insect dead? Am I too impatient?

Small miracles