Go to Galveston - The Bryan Museum

Folding Fan Depicting La Salle's Expedition to Texas

Photo and description courtesy of The Bryan Museum, Galveston, Texas

This exquisite fan features 24 carved ivory sticks and guards (monture) with mother of pearl inlay, gilt, and uncolored stones, elements of Chinoiserie and, simultaneously, of the Gothic revival. The sticks themselves are delicately carved, pierced with small figures, and painted, with the six center sticks showing a flute player surrounded by trees and birds. Forensic examination of the paints used on the fan indicate that one of the colors is Prussian blue, which came into existence in 1704 and was widely available by 1722.

Just part of the impressive exhibits and collections of Southwestern art and history in the Bryan Museum.  We went there for the first time this weekend, and I was totally amazed.  The docents were knowledgable, the displays so well done.  Several have iPads with additional information and closeup views.  This museum is housed inside the restored 1895 Galveston Orphans Home.

Next time you visit Galveston, be sure to check out The Bryan Museum
1315 21st Street  (409) 632-7685
They are open Friday through Monday, 11 AM to 4 PM

Photography is not allowed inside.  However, check out their social media presence for photographs,  which you could not have taken better anyway.  Seriously, it is best to view, enjoy and appreciate all this in person instead of behind a camera lens. (Though I'm thinking discretely sketching might be OK if it is not too busy...I will ask first when I return.)

Facebook - The Bryan Museum - Galveston
Twitter @TheBryanMuseum
Instagram - thebryanmuseum
Pinterest - The Bryan Museum

There truly is something for everyone.  And a heads' up/shout out to departing/arriving passengers from the Galveston Cruise Ship Terminal, those interested in anything and everything Texana and Southwestern, people who sew will appreciate seeing the cowgirl/cowboy outfits, uniforms and clothing,  artists - go upstairs to the rotating collection of historical and contemporary Texas artwork and artists.  And children will certainly enjoy exploring the lower level.

What a great addition to Galveston!