Berlin is not exactly on my thesis map, since my greatgreatgrandfather grew up not here in former Prussia, but in the southwestern Bavarian Pfalz. Nevertheless, I’m so glad I came, if only to visit the 19th century art exhibit at the Berlin Bodemuseum.
I take over 100 photographs ohne Blitz, bitte (without flash). The paintings depict Biblical scenes and romantic landscapes, but also close-ups of artful living. I am especially indebted to Menzel for his painting of a 19th century rolling mill, 
and Hasenclever for his scenes of men reading newspapers and tasting local vintages.
“Look at that lamp,” I comment to Wolf as we peer at Hasenclever’s Reading Room. “It looks more modern than I would have thought.”
“Perhaps,” he says, “we could pick one up at IKEA.”
Later, Wolf and his family prepare a feast of grilled lamb, zucchini and eggplant, hummus, tabouleh and pita for their friends Elke and Werner and me. We talk and laugh late into the evening.
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