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| Two Ladies Ice Skating in Central Park by Walter Granville Smith |
The thrill of gliding on the ice… These ladies look like they are having fun! The lovely apparel isn't a hinderance to them. In fact, it looks more exciting in their fanciful attire! Did you know that Prince Albert and Queen Victoria were avid ice skaters themselves? She especially delighted in watching her husband skate on the lake in Buckingham Palace. In 1841, she recorded the following incident in her diary:
"…the ice cracked, and Albert was in the water up to his head, even for a moment below. In my agony of fright and despair I screamed and stretched out my arm... My Dearest Albert managed to catch my arm and reached the ground in safety."
(Of course, you probably won't encounter a situation like the queen as long as you skate in a proper and designated area.)
Questions for Mothers and Maidens:
- What time period do you think this painting takes place in?
- Where do you think it takes place at based on the clues?
Winter Activity:
Have you ever ice skated before? Why not take this winter opportunity and enjoy the crisp air on frozen waters? Gather up your loved ones and bundle up. It is excellent exercise and will make for wonderful memories. Embrace the change in the weather and enjoy it the classical way through this pleasurable pastime.
