Genghis Kahn

Tonight Andy and I went to the Field Museum for the opening of its latest exhibit, Genghis Kahn. We met up with a couple from church and feasted on a variety of Asian foods. Almond cookies and green-tea infused cupcakes were dessert. Pretty yummy.

The description of the exhibit from the museum's website: "Explore the life and times of the ruthless warrior who grew from a poor, illiterate boy into one of the world’s greatest leaders—Genghis Khan, February 24 – September 3, 2012, only at The Field Museum.

Born in 1162, the would-be emperor endured a brutal childhood, eventually rising to earn the title of Genghis Khan (meaning “Oceanic Ruler”) after successfully uniting the many Mongol tribes. In just 25 years, his army conquered more lands and people than the Romans did during their entire 400-year rule!

Animated maps, engaging videos, and immersive environments help capture the essence of Genghis Khan’s extensive empire and reveal his dual role as both feared conqueror and revered statesman. Examine the largest single collection of 13th-century Mongolian artifacts ever assembled—including gold jewelry, weaponry, silk robes, religious relics, and the newly discovered mummy of a Mongolian noble woman."

After we walked through the exhibit, Andy and I got a drink and sat down, waiting for our friends to finish the exhibit. We noticed that people were taking the centerpieces off the tables and hoarding them. One table sitting next to us had three centerpieces. Finally, our friends came by and commented on it too. However, they said an employee told them the centerpieces could be taken home. I offered her the one on our table, but she said she was parked too far away to take it. After watching people walk out with them, we took ours too. Maybe E will take it to her Japanese teacher. It does have a nice Asian feel to it. Or we'll just set it on the dining room table.