In the Art Nouveau and the Arts & Crafts movements, "preciousness" of material was not a key factor. Rather, beauty and craftsmanship reigned supreme. Simple materials, exquisitely fashioned, was the name of the game. Copper, brass and oak were valued like precious substances—once transformed by a hand of a skilled artisan.
The English Art Nouveau cufflinks and matching stickpin, shown above, are fashioned of interestingly-organic art glass cabochons. Though the material is not precious, per se, the appearance and style are sublime. This illustrates perfectly the priorities of Arts & Crafts collectors: beauty and craftsmanship. Click on the photo above to learn more about them.
Though our Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed, LEO Design is still alive and well! Please visit our on-line store where we continue to sell Handsome Gifts (www.LEOdesignNYC.com).
We also can be found in Pittsburgh's historic "Strip District" at Mahla & Co. Antiques (www.mahlaantiques.com) or in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania at The Antique Center of Strabane (www.antiquecenterofstrabane.com).
Or call to arrange to visit our Pittsburgh showroom (by private appointment only). 917-446-4248