Builders renovating National Gallery find funder's letter commending demolition

[Jk23]

https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/article/2024/aug/27/builders-find-note-from-past-hidden-in-column-of-national-gallery

John Sainsbury hid note in 1990 inside false column he objected to, anticipating foyer would one day be remodelled to his liking

Builders knocking down a column at the National Gallery were surprised to find a long-lost note amid the rubble thanking them for demolishing the “unnecessary” pillar.

While removing a column in the gallery’s Sainsbury Wing, demolition workers discovered a letter dating back to 1990 from its funder, John Sainsbury, the former chair of the eponymous supermarket chain, that said he was “absolutely delighted” the pillar was being removed.

The letter, which was wrapped in a plastic folder, was found buried inside the column. Sainsbury gained access to the wing while it was under construction and dropped his scathing letter into the concrete column while it was being built. It was discovered last year while the foyer of the wing was being reconfigured.

I know this chap was not one of ours but I find this story delightful.... partially because I hate pillars in buildings that don't actually do anything. See most modern McMansions.

[Talitha]

1. I love a well-timed "told you so".

Didn't an architect once do something like that? IIRC it concerned what he deemed unneccesary support pillars. Turns out the pillars were indeed put in place, but they did not touch the ceiling.

[delisen]

2. I admire Sainsbury's faith. nt