So I eventually did borrow Mister Boyfriend’s car and meet G. at the Minneapolis Art Institute, and we had a lovely lunch and spent the afternoon in the new Asian galleries. G. has travelled extensively in Asia, but I had no idea how much she knew about temple art. I am now much better educated about the differences between Cambodian, Burmese, Thai, and Chinese Buddhas. (Length of earlobes, style of topknot and hair, physical build.) Thanks to reading placards, I also know more about the “well appointed tomb” and the scholar’s study “in support of an intellectual mission,” a concept that charms me. Very pleasant afternoon, particularly due to the companionship.

Note to self: I must remember to come back in April for the St. John’s Bible exhibit, featuring the first modern-era illuminated Bible.