"An artist has just converted a legendary piece of 19th century art into an utter ruin. And two Smithsonian institutions — the Freer and Sackler Asian Art galleries — have given their blessings."

"The Peacock Room at the Freer Gallery is an actual dining room from London, decorated by James McNeill Whistler in 1876. Its blue-green walls are covered with golden designs and painted peacocks. Gilded shelves hold priceless Asian ceramics. It's an expensive, lavish cocoon, rich in beauty and a dab of menace."

"Freer security guard Shaquan Harper spends hours at a time in the Peacock Room — and says it's a peaceful, meditative experience. 'Blue is my favorite color and whenever I wear jewelry it's gold,' he says. 'So I kind of make a personal connection with the room. This is one of my favorite galleries in the Smithsonian.'"