Latest news with #HenryCole
Spectator
09-07-2025
- Politics
- Spectator
Museums like the V&A shouldn't be allowed to return ‘looted' treasures
Henry Cole, the first director of what would become the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A), could never have imagined that in his place would follow a man who seems determined to rail against the safeguards that have helped keep the museum's collection intact. But this, sadly, appears to be the task Tristram Hunt is committed to. Hunt knew the law before he took the job Hunt, director of the V&A since 2017, has declared the 1983 National Heritage Act which prevents him from returning artefacts to their country of origin, to be 'outdated and infantilising'. In fact, it is a key reason why collections, including the V&A's, have been maintained. Britain is home to several thousand museums. Most, subject to the odd deed of trust and their constitutional obligations, are free to do as they please with the items under their care. But a handful are considered of such national importance that they are protected in law. Acts of Parliament such as the National Heritage Act, the Museums and Galleries Act 1992, and the British Museum Act 1963 strictly limit disposal of objects except in rare and carefully defined circumstances (none of which include the political motivations of a director). Hunt appears to think that the law that prevents him from casting aside the V&A's long history, and 'return(ing)' items, is not fit for purpose. Among the treasures mentioned by Hunt during his speech at the University of Cambridge's Global Humanities Network last month are Tippoo's Tiger, a wooden tiger made for Tipu, Sultan of Mysore, and an Asante crown taken from Ghana. He is seeking an amendment to the law which would give museum trustees 'autonomy' over the fate of such items. Conspicuously absent from this debate is any real reflection on the role that the claimant countries themselves play in these negotiations, and what that says about their commitment to contested objects. In 2007, Ethiopia lodged a formal restitution claim for hundreds of objects now residing in the V&A, including a crown and gold chalice taken by the British in 1872. The request was denied due to the laws prohibiting restitution from the V&A. But after Hunt became director in 2017, a possible workaround was put forward: the ambassador was informed that 'the speediest way, if Ethiopia wanted to have these items on display, is a long-term loan.' This arrangement, first hinted at by Hunt in 2018, would have allowed the objects to be sent to Ethiopia on a long term or indefinite loan with an expectation that the arrangement would be renewed ad infinitum. Ethiopia refused to play ball. 'The Ethiopian government, for perfectly understandable political reasons, took the view that…'You offering to lend stuff you stole from us' wasn't politically viable so we've reached a kind of impasse with these objects,' Hunt said. Other countries have been more accommodating. Last year a number of Ghanian objects were sent to Kumasi from the V&A for display – an arrangement which will see the objects legally protected (from damage, loss, or sale), while permitting display in a country which values them. A paper I co-authored for Policy Exchange earlier this year with Sir Trevor Phillips found that items returned unconditionally are often at serious risk. Benin Bronzes returned by museums across the world have disappeared into private collections. Some bronzes even seem to have gone missing from museums in Lagos and Benin City. Their fate remains unknown, but the story offers a stark reminder of the dangers of transferring artefacts into the ownership of other countries without question. So why is a loan unacceptable to the Ethiopian government? If Ethiopia truly wishes to display these objects for public benefit, why reject a loan that guarantees just that? Their insistence on legal ownership – rather than public display – rather weakens the moral force of their claim. The V&A is simply too historically significant to have its collection held hostage to the whims of a single, self-styled visionary. Hunt knew the law before he took the job. If he was so determined to spend his days dispatching artefacts abroad, there was no shortage of museums that would have indulged him. Instead, he accepted stewardship of one of England's great civic treasures – the first museum in the world to fling open its doors to the masses and truly democratise visual education. Cole famously installed gas lamps so that working men and women could visit after dark, helping to break the aristocratic stranglehold on art and culture. Hunt risks undoing that work: gutting the V&A of its international collections and ensuring that the experience of world history is once again a privilege reserved for those who can afford the airfare.
Los Angeles Times
07-07-2025
- Business
- Los Angeles Times
After more than 100 years in operation, Cole's French Dip to close permanently
Cole's French Dip, the oldest restaurant and saloon in Los Angeles, is slated to close its doors on August 3. The last day of service for the landmark restaurant, which claims to have invented the French dip, will be August 2. 'The litany of reasons for closing are not unique to Cole's alone; they are affecting most independent restaurants in Los Angeles,' said owner Cedd Moses in a press release announcing the restaurant's closure. 'The global pandemic, the actors and writers strikes, overall crime, as well as the consistently rising costs of labor and goods, unsustainably high rents and mounting bureaucracy and legal exposure have all led to this unfortunate outcome.' Founded by Henry Cole in 1908, Cole's French Dip opened as Cole's Pacific Electric Buffet, named after the Pacific Electric Building in which it's housed. Lore has it that the eponymous dish originated when a customer with a bad case of sore gums asked for his sandwich to be lowered into the jus because the French roll was too crunchy for him. (In Chinatown, Philippe the Original also claims to have created the dish.) The 21st century iteration of Cole's French dip sandwich comes with a choice of roast beef, braised pork or lamb, or pastrami, served on a crusty roll lined with melted cheese (Swiss, cheddar, American or goat), a pickle spear and a cup of au jus for dipping. It's still one of the most popular items on the menu. 'We have cherished our time serving the Downtown community, and will continue to craft great drinks and our renowned French dip sandwiches until we shutter,' the press release stated. 'We care deeply about our family of staff and are immensely grateful for our amazing guests who have supported Cole's over the years. We invite you to come in to see us this month before our departure, to laugh, to cry, to raise glasses, to eat, and to say your goodbyes right alongside us.' Despite its long-standing ties to the local food scene, Brian Lenzo, the senior vice president of operations for Pouring With Heart, the ownership group which took over the restaurant in 2008, said the 'writing was on the wall for a long time.' In addition to rising costs of labor and rent, the historic core of downtown has increasingly deteriorated, he said; nearly every other day Cole's employees have to clean human feces from the storefront. Lenzo said he hopes the fate of Cole's — like other historic L.A. restaurants that have recently shuttered permanently — will serve as a 'catalyst' for the community to rally behind local businesses. 'By the time the Olympics get here, all these mom and pops will be gone,' he said. 'Hopefully it's a wake up call for the right people to step up and figure out a plan.' As news of the impending closure spread on social media, patrons began sharing their favorite memories at the iconic diner. But the announcement has rocked the downtown L.A. community in particular. DTLA Insider was also one of the first to announce the closure on Instagram on Sunday. Media Moussavy, who runs the popular account, said, 'You have to improve the environment before anyone wants to open up a business here. ' 'This [restaurant] has lasted the Great Depression, World Wars, every economic downturn, and it's sad to see that this is the final straw that brings it down,' he added. Cole's has seen such a surge in business since the closing announcement that it had to pull in bartenders from sister establishments, said Lenzo. The restaurant also plans to invite past bartenders to come serve the community for a final time. 'We've seen a lot of outreach, people in L.A. love L.A., they have pride in L.A.,' said Lenzo. 'To have to say goodbye, it's something that scars the city a little bit.' At this time, there are no plans to save Cole's — though Moses, who has been a fan of the restaurant since childhood, said he is feeling 'hopeful that someone will buy Cole's and can carry on the tradition.' This story is developing.
Scottish Sun
04-05-2025
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
Shed & Buried star Henry Cole reveals six classic car-buying mistakes – including meeting place you should always avoid
DREAM WHEELS Shed & Buried star Henry Cole reveals six classic car-buying mistakes – including meeting place you should always avoid SHED & Buried star Henry Cole has revealed his six classic car-buying mistakes - including a meeting place you should always avoid. After years of treating viewers to his bargain-hunting exploits, the haggling presenter has enjoyed many an NLE ("nice little earner"). 4 Henry Coles, the long-time car expert, has offered fans his top tips before buying a classic motor Credit: ITV 4 He advises those purchasing a classic set of wheels to avoid meeting a seller in a car park 4 Cole hosts Shed & Buried alongside his mates Fuzz Towshend and Guy Willison Credit: Quest / Supplied 4 Cole has driven and owned all sorts of classic vehicles and once even paid £25,000 on a really cool' E-Type Jaguar body shell on a BMW chassis Credit: Quest / Supplied The popular Quest show sees him scour the lengths of the country for forgotten automotive gems - along with mates Fuzz Towshend and Guy Willison. But Henry, 61, is no stranger to the odd mishap too, he told The Sun. As viewers await the last three episodes of the current Shed & Buried: Classic Cars spin-off, he told us his top dos and don'ts when it comes to buying classic cars. Top mistakes to avoid First of all, "don't meet in a car park," Henry joked. "Go to their shed or place of business." While it may be tempting to save time by meeting dealers halfway, this removes a key insight into where and how their vehicles have been kept, he explained. "You can tell a lot about the vehicle you're buying from the state of the building and its contents." Second, if the car is a runner and road legal, don't buy it without a test drive. It's easy to be impressed by a swish exterior, but overzealousness can lead to trouble down the line, according to Henry. "It may look good from afar, but it could be far from good". Similarly, "ignore cosmetics" as fancy features like soft tops can "cost an arm and a leg to fix". Many buyers also forget to check the car's documents - which allows cheekier sellers to withhold information about its service history. Inside abandoned Bugatti factory that made some of world's most expensive cars before being left to rot for 30 years Has it really had an engine rebuild? Does the logbook match the VIN plate? If you haven't checked - who knows? Next up, have your wits about you - especially if you're an amateur. "Caveat emptor, as the legal eagles say," Henry said. "You don't have many rights buying from a private seller, so it's worth going to a classic car dealer, particularly if you aren't 100 per cent confident you could spot a lemon. "Don't accept the price on the dealer's ticket, have a proper haggle." The last mistake is one Henry knows all too well: "Don't let your head rule your heart." He once forked out £25,000 on a "really cool" E-Type Jaguar body shell on a BMW chassis - only to flog it for £15,000 after £2,000's worth of repairs. Ultimately, Henry said, "there's often a reason why they're selling". And, for an extra top tip, he added: "Do not buy as an investment - even if that's what you've told your other half. "With a run-of-the-mill classic you've got more chance of winning the lottery than selling it on for a serious profit in the future." Henry Cole's top six classic car-buying mistakes Don't meet in a car park Don't skip on the test drive Don't be swayed by cosmetics Don't forget to check the documents Don't be overconfident if you're an amateur Don't let heart rule head Top things to look for "You get a vibe the minute you walk in," said Henry, who is currently in the midst of a UK theatre tour with legendary bike racer Steve Parrish. "Your gut will tell you if it's good or not." But, there are still some simple structural characteristics you can look out for. "Does it sit on four wheels? Do the panels fit and the doors open and shut properly? If not, the chassis could be rusted or it may have been in a shunt." Next, be extra vigilant when it comes to any rubber elements on the car. Henry explained: "It's a California car and rust-free' is something you hear quite often. "You need to be aware that anything rubber - tyres, hoses, seals and all that caper - can perish in the dry heat, so check them out first." As a result, new tyres - or "new boots" as Henry calls them - are a big win for buyers. "Tyres are really expensive these days," he said, "especially on older cars - and don't get me started on tractors. "If the tyres need replacing, factor that into the price you pay." Another useful hack, according to Henry, is to start the engine from cold. If the engine is warm when you arrive, ask yourself, "what are they trying to hide?" Also, though it may sound obvious, "take time sitting inside the car," Henry advised. "Look at the upholstery and trim, which can cost a bundle to fix. "Something I don't do that's caused me anguish in the past is to turn on the ignition and check that all the bulbs and dials work. "I can't be bothered and pay the price - literally every time." And lastly, stick to your guns when it comes to crunch time - the negotiation. "When negotiating, tell them how much you're prepared to pay then shut up and look at the floor," Henry said. "Wait for the seller to break the silence and, chances are, they'll accept your offer or come close." Episode 8 of Shed & Buried: Classic Cars airs on Monday at 9pm on Quest.
The Sun
04-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
Shed & Buried star Henry Cole reveals six classic car-buying mistakes – including meeting place you should always avoid
SHED & Buried star Henry Cole has revealed his six classic car-buying mistakes - including a meeting place you should always avoid. After years of treating viewers to his bargain-hunting exploits, the haggling presenter has enjoyed many an NLE ("nice little earner"). 4 4 4 4 The popular Quest show sees him scour the lengths of the country for forgotten automotive gems - along with mates Fuzz Towshend and Guy Willison. But Henry, 61, is no stranger to the odd mishap too, he told The Sun. As viewers await the last three episodes of the current Shed & Buried: Classic Cars spin-off, he told us his top dos and don'ts when it comes to buying classic cars. Top mistakes to avoid First of all, "don't meet in a car park," Henry joked. "Go to their shed or place of business." While it may be tempting to save time by meeting dealers halfway, this removes a key insight into where and how their vehicles have been kept, he explained. "You can tell a lot about the vehicle you're buying from the state of the building and its contents." Second, if the car is a runner and road legal, don't buy it without a test drive. It's easy to be impressed by a swish exterior, but overzealousness can lead to trouble down the line, according to Henry. "It may look good from afar, but it could be far from good". Similarly, "ignore cosmetics" as fancy features like soft tops can "cost an arm and a leg to fix". Many buyers also forget to check the car's documents - which allows cheekier sellers to withhold information about its service history. Inside abandoned Bugatti factory that made some of world's most expensive cars before being left to rot for 30 years Has it really had an engine rebuild? Does the logbook match the VIN plate? If you haven't checked - who knows? Next up, have your wits about you - especially if you're an amateur. "Caveat emptor, as the legal eagles say," Henry said. "You don't have many rights buying from a private seller, so it's worth going to a classic car dealer, particularly if you aren't 100 per cent confident you could spot a lemon. "Don't accept the price on the dealer's ticket, have a proper haggle." The last mistake is one Henry knows all too well: "Don't let your head rule your heart." He once forked out £25,000 on a "really cool" E-Type Jaguar body shell on a BMW chassis - only to flog it for £15,000 after £2,000's worth of repairs. Ultimately, Henry said, "there's often a reason why they're selling". And, for an extra top tip, he added: "Do not buy as an investment - even if that's what you've told your other half. "With a run-of-the-mill classic you've got more chance of winning the lottery than selling it on for a serious profit in the future." Top things to look for "You get a vibe the minute you walk in," said Henry, who is currently in the midst of a UK theatre tour with legendary bike racer Steve Parrish. "Your gut will tell you if it's good or not." But, there are still some simple structural characteristics you can look out for. "Does it sit on four wheels? Do the panels fit and the doors open and shut properly? If not, the chassis could be rusted or it may have been in a shunt." Next, be extra vigilant when it comes to any rubber elements on the car. Henry explained: "It's a California car and rust-free' is something you hear quite often. "You need to be aware that anything rubber - tyres, hoses, seals and all that caper - can perish in the dry heat, so check them out first." As a result, new tyres - or "new boots" as Henry calls them - are a big win for buyers. "Tyres are really expensive these days," he said, "especially on older cars - and don't get me started on tractors. "If the tyres need replacing, factor that into the price you pay." Another useful hack, according to Henry, is to start the engine from cold. If the engine is warm when you arrive, ask yourself, "what are they trying to hide?" Also, though it may sound obvious, "take time sitting inside the car," Henry advised. "Look at the upholstery and trim, which can cost a bundle to fix. "Something I don't do that's caused me anguish in the past is to turn on the ignition and check that all the bulbs and dials work. "I can't be bothered and pay the price - literally every time." And lastly, stick to your guns when it comes to crunch time - the negotiation. "When negotiating, tell them how much you're prepared to pay then shut up and look at the floor," Henry said. "Wait for the seller to break the silence and, chances are, they'll accept your offer or come close."
Glasgow Times
26-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Glasgow Times
Cafe at iconic Glasgow museum named one of the UK's best
The on-site eatery at the city's Burrell Collection was named alongside spots across the country, including Corner at the Tate Modern in London and the Stone Cafe at Perth Museum. Introducing the list, The Guardian newspaper said not only do these cafes allow visitors to take stock of everything they've seen, they are also a draw in their own right, something that was realised by Henry Cole, founding director of the V&A. Cole hoped that his refreshment rooms, which were opened in 1868, would encourage people to enjoy culture while they ate, something that has since been replicated by others. The Burrell Collection cafe was the only entry from Glasgow to be named (Image: Getty Images) Why was the cafe at the Burrell Collection in Glasgow named one of the best in the UK? Discussing the eatery at Glasgow's Burrell Collection, The Guardian said: "Light floods the cafe at the Burrell, in a space that feels somewhere between a summer house and a church, all the glass skilfully blurring the lines between the green parkland and the calm museum interior." The publication went on to praise the £68 million revamp of the museum and gallery in Pollok Park, which added this bright extension. It said the inclusion of this space has helped create a "relaxing spot" to enjoy a coffee and cake while checking out the diverse collection donated to the city by Sir William Burrell. Discussing the menu, the newspaper said: "Big salads (£11.50) and toasted sourdough sandwiches (£10) are the mainstays, with a few interesting small plates too. Recommended Reading: "Try 'chickpea a leekie' – spiced carrot hummus with crispy leeks and pickled prunes – or mushrooms in kale breadcrumbs with aioli (£7). "For hungrier folk, there are heartier meals too, and the Angus steak burger (£11.95) will see you right. "It's cafeteria-style rather than table service, but it's worth queueing up again for coffee and the millionaire's shortbread."
