Should you ever admit to popping into a gallery just for a cup of tea?
Well it wasn't just for the tea.
"I know a cafe with beautiful rooftop views", I suggested.
We had tea and pastries at the National Portrait Gallery, on our way to this exhibition,
where there was no buffet car.
Anyway Crossrail weren't providing refreshments, only archaeology.
I was feeling a little guilty,
not paying any attention to the portraits,
heading straight to the Portrait Restaurant,
intent on breakfast with a view.
Then we came out of the lift on our way down and spotted this.
Huge.
Imposing.
Beautiful.
We got sidetracked.
Nearly three and a half meters high.
Four small people in a huge room?
A painting with an air of informality yet King George V is standing to attention?
Why is the Prince of Wales standing behind the sofa?
A family portrait not commissioned by the family themselves?
And where are the other three princes?
I felt better, less guilty.
I had looked at a painting.
So the visit hadn't just been all about breakfast after all.
Paintings and breakfast are available at the National Portrait Gallery.
Details on their website here.
Remember to keep your eyes peeled when coming out of the lifts!
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