Wordless Wednesday: Roses of This Summer

Vojanovy sady, Prague

I've been to Prague in July and it was a pleasure to see gardens there. One of them is Vojanovy sady (Vojan's Garden), the oldest preserved garden in Prague, hidden behind walls and houses and offers very intimate atmosphere of old monastery gardens.

The place retained its original intimate character. Originally it was part of a fruit garden owned by the Bishop residence which was founded in the 13th century. Emperor Ferdinand III founded a monastery here which became home to female members of Carmelite order.

Later the garden had been maintained by the Order of English Virgins and in 20th century it was transferred into the hands of the Finance Ministry. The Garden was opened to the public and named after Czech actor Eduard Vojan in 1954.

It is hard to believe that such a quiet oasis could be so close a very busy metro and tram stop. As I continued strolling through the park I noticed many different types of trees as apple and pear and nut woods, roses and flowers in bloom.

Vojan's Garden is quite famous for housing a big family of peacocks. Unfortunately when I came these majestic birds decided not put on display their sunning feather tails, some peahens walked with their babies along the paths. 

In addition to the wonderful flora I also admired some modern sculptures, an 18th century sundial, a small chapel in the center of the park.

Prague, July 2019


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Here is my video:

Decorative Plates

I had been to an exhibition of decorative plates at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. These plates were used to decorate the rich citizens homes many years ago.
Let's see this interesting collection together. Most often a pattern or a picture or a drawing of cobalt was placed in the center of a plate. The story of the ancient centuries, the bible, or landscape was used for a drawing or pattern.

Transfer printed glaze green was introduced at the factory in Staffordshire, 1821. Later lead glazed earthenware were printed in other colors. Below is the amazing plate with a ceramic snake. What did someone feel when eating food on this plate?

Silvered decoration was a rarity on ceramics in 19 century. In Germany the Berlin factory was the first to decorate successfully with platinum. Unlike silver, platinum does not tarnish.

The bone china was painted with enamels at the factory of Derby, England. Mercury gilding gives a thinner and more even layer of gold than other techniques.

Here is the decorative technique on paperweights: opal and green glass, silvered and engraved glass. Bohemia 19 century.

Having finished looking at decorative plates, I had lunch at the museum restaurant. I liked the interior design. Each of the three dining rooms was beautiful. The windows decorated with stained glass, huge crystal chandeliers, ceiling, walls, mirrors, columns gave the hall solemnity. Beautiful dishes - plates, cups and teapots were on the tables.

Do you have any decorative plates at home? Do they remind you travel, adventures, or your friend visit?