In the Louvre Museum, the world's most famous painting, is NOT allowed to be photographed (although some have tried, and, as we witnessed, were strongly reprimanded to say the least). However, this black and white rendition of the enigmatic Mona IS allowed to be photographed. So here she is. Next to this painting are the words, "Peintures italiennes ... La Joconde (Monna Lisa).

Here is none other than Hermaphrodite, the child of Hermes and Aphrodite. Look closely and you'll see what I mean. To be in the presence of such beauty and grace brought forth from a chunk of marble is truly awe inspiring.

This is a 3-legged chair that really appeals to me, upon which is the congenial face of a Roman-Egyptian fellow from the 3rd century.

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Sumerian Tablet around 4,350 years old. This writing in stone relates to royal historical documents. I find it fascinating to realize that this method of preserving written data from 'ancient times' is in many ways much superior to our present-day CD's and DVD approach.

Empress Sabine, wife of Hadrian, is seen in this magnificent, detailed portrait from around 1800 years ago. Surprisingly, it's quite small in size, only 7" x 14." I'd like to get to know her better as I sense she has lived a rich and varied life.

This powerful, glazed terra cotta Lion is huge, 2500 years old and Babylonian.

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The Three Muses in all their splendor.

These gems and jewelry intrigue me since I collect all kinds of beads just for the fun of it. These gems are from the Temple of Lions in Mesopotamia and are about 4000 years old. How neat would it be to wear THAT necklace at my next drum group!

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Painting of Pan from around 2100 years ago. The setting is Roman, near Pompeii. Jim could not help but note Pan's wings and pointed ears. Hmm, he looks a bit Satanic. Which means, I (Jim) suppose that he IS Satan OR that our idea of Satan is a corruption of this non-Christian feller.