I have had it in mind for some time to take a photo of a certain rather irascible-looking neighbour of ours. I finally managed to do so during today’s outing. So here he is in all his glory.

Wild Kong by Richard Orlinski

This bright red, more than life-size, gorilla stands in a frozen fit of rage in front of a recently completed block of flats. It’s size and colour make it one of the most eye-catching objects along this stretch of the Pentonville Road.

You can find more information about the artist on Richard Orlinski’s website and a more expert explanation of the work than I could attempt on his Gallery page

If I were to make any remark at all it might be that I feel somewhat resentful on behalf of gorilla-kind to see the artist perpetuating the violent stereotype, most famously embodied in the film King Kong, of a species that is in fact quite peaceable. Who can forget that film sequence of David Attenborough reclining in the midst of a family of gorillas? Artists, it seems, are not of a mind to let the truth get in the way of a good story.

In yesterday’s post, A church and a barber shop, I mentioned that there were two barbers in Amwell Street, quiet backwater though it be. Here, for completeness, is a photo of it.

ELP Barbershop

Called ELP Barbershop, its “hook” to attract customers is to offer free beer with a haircut.

When I first came to live hereabouts, this corner site bore the signage of a betting shop though I never saw it open for business. It was briefly occupied by a building firm, so briefly, in fact, that I don’t think they ever got around to painting their name over the door. The latest hopefuls have in their turn been closed down, like all “non-essential” businesses by the wretched virus.

Some businesses, I am glad to relate, have continued to thrive despite the pandemic and even to enjoy an increase in trade. One such is our coffee oasis, Myddelton’s deli. We were later than usual in calling there today and should by rights have found the door locked and bolted as they close at 3 pm at weekends. It was still open because the steady flow of customers prevented them from closing the door!