This painting is a layered expression of stories within stories and is filled with hidden meaning. The figure represents the importance of women. The catalogue of the Hermitage Museum tells that today’s religion is art; museums are our churches. The two ravens act as guardian angels. At The Spice Temple, Ling carries her precious tome of tea – rich in culture and rituals. She faces Russian guests with the protective birds and magic of the grand villa. Let art and stories beyond the obvious lead the way to new possibilities.