Sciences of Antiquity

My copper-lamps, at any rate,
For being true antique, I bought;
Yet wisely melted down my plate,
On modern models to be wrought;
And trifles I alike pursue,
Because they're old, because they're new.

There is nothing new except that which has become antiquated.

Nor rough, nor barren, are the winding ways
Of hoar Antiquity, but strewn with flowers.