Well, since this is my blog, and I write for no one but myself (if you happened upon this by accident, then welcome), I guess it’s okay to blow my own horn and pat myself on the back when I feel the occasion deserves it.
This is one such occasion.
Last Saturday, I was “invested” into the Order of Salvador, a chivalric order created by the Salvador Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg, Florida to recognize and honor those who have been supporters and contributors. I have been one such for nearly three decades.
Newly Knighted
When I received the “command” (invitation) to attend and be knighted, I was both surprised and honored. I never expected the museum to bestow any sort of honor on me. No, it has been my pleasure over the years to attend the annual dinner, and donate here and there to support the conservation of some of the artist’s masterpieces.
So, I flew to St. Petersburg, tuxedo in hand (in a manner of speaking), and was knighted by Brad Morse, son of the late Reynolds and Eleanor Morse, the museum’s founders. I was presented with a medal to wear at museum events, “chivalrous events” and “affairs of state.”
Knight of the Order of Salvador
The entire ceremony took about two and a half hours. There was first a cocktail social for about 45 minutes, and then I and several others were invested or “elevated” (promoted). We then enjoyed coffee and sweets, and the deed was done.
I then returned to my hotel, changed into my street clothes, and went out to enjoy dinner.
In the grand scheme of things, this won’t change the orbit of the earth or bring on world peace, but it’s a meaningful honor to me, and I’m delighted to have been awarded it.
As a postscript, this was a great opportunity for me to renew my “authentication” of a lithograph I’ve owned since 1980. If it proves to be a real Dalí, I plan to donate it to the museum!
Numbered (42 of 150) and signed lithograph
