Bugatti

Bugatti

A study in sweeping lines and fluid Art Deco ornamentation, this unique Bugatti was constructed by Carrosserie Vanvooren of Paris. From 1911 until the start of World War II, the automobiles of Ettore Bugatti, an authoritative and artistic Italian who lived in France for most of his life, competed successfully in international racing. Bugatti’s cars were stylish, temperamental, exclusive, and fast. He experimented with aerodynamics and pioneered the use of lightweight metals like magnesium. This one-of-a-kind, supercharged Type S7C belonged to Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the last shah of Iran. When Pahlavi married Princess Fazia of Egypt, their nuptials were celebrated in Cairo. To flatter the future leader of a key oil-producing country, many nations sent lavish wedding presents, such as this luxurious car. Its windscreen can be lowered into the cowl for a sportier appearance.

Ancient Splendor


Yesterday, we went to the art museum, to see the new exhibit—Ancient Splendor: Roman Art in the Time of Trajen. This visiting exhibit comes from Italy and features art that has never left that country before. Showcasing art from the height of the Roman Empire, this exhibit features art portraying everyday Roman life and at the highest zenith of Roman power.

Seen here are statues of Trajen and Caligula. Trajen was the second of the “five good emperors”, while Caligula, the third emperor, was arguably the worst and was eventually assassinated by his own bodyguards while still in office. The US has often been compared to Rome. Both were the superpowers of their day. And comparing Trajen and Caligula with our own leadership, both had good leaders and bad. Does Caligula transition from popular leader to notoriously capricious, cruel, and extravagant tyrant remind you of anyone else?