Rupert Bear was brought to life on 8 November 1920 under the pen of English artist Mary Tourtel. He was commissioned by the Daily Express as a means of luring readers away from rival newspapers. Over the years, a succession of artists have inherited Tourtel's creation—and, indeed, the comic strip still runs to this day. In it, Rupert Bear and his best friend Bill Badger have adventures with their many chums, including Edward Trunk the elephant, Willie the mouse, Pong-Ping the Pekingese pup, twins Reggie & Rex Rabbit, and Ming the dragon. The little brass sculpture, pictured above, was made in England in the 1920's. He will be a faithful companion on dad's desk or bedside—and may remind him of the many bedtime...
The quadrennial FIFA World Cup begins today in Russia. "Russia?" you ask. Umm-Hmm. And on Day One they play . . . Saudi Arabia! It seems Russia is everywhere these days! In this one case, however, America will not be in-collusion: the U.S. failed to make it into the final 32 qualifying teams. (So much for Making America Great Again). The U.S. team does have notable company on the sidelines: Italy, Netherlands, New Zealand, Cameroon, Ghana and Ivory Coast all failed to make it into the tournament. Fox Broadcasting, which had already purchased the U.S. rights to cover the games, is concerned that American viewership will be even lower than usual (given no American team in the competition). Instead, they will...
If your dad's a teacher, this gift will hit the mark. But even if he isn't, he may relish the opportunity to ring for a little attention. Made in England during the 1880's or 1890's, this bronze Aesthetic Movement school bell is topped with a turned ebonywood knob. Large and heavy, it is certain to be noticed—sitting on a desk or being shaken with vigor. Click on the photo above to learn more about it. More Father's Day gift ideas tomorrow. LEO Design's Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed. While we contemplate our next shop location, please visit our on-line store which continues to operate (www.LEOdesignNYC.com). Follow us on Instagram: "leodesignhandsomegifts" Follow us on Facebook: "LEO Design - Handsome...
Perhaps literature strikes your father's fancy. Or—wow!—poetry. Here's a pair of bookends which celebrates two writers of note. Alexander Pope and Andrew Young were both British poets—the former an Englishman, the latter a Scotsman—and both men were influential in their times. Pope (1688 – 1744) had a difficult early life. As a Catholic, he was not allowed to go to school (due to the English “Test Acts” which banned Catholics from teaching, attending college, holding public office, or going to Catholic grade school). Alexander was homeschooled, for a time, and later attended an illegal, underground school. When a law was passed disallowing Catholics from living within 10 miles of London, his family moved to the country and the young man’s...
Sand-casting is an ancient method of metalwork whereby the original item (to be duplicated) is pressed into a tray of sticky sand. When the object is removed, it leaves behind a depression into which molten metal is poured. After cooling, the newly-cast piece is retrieved, cleaned-up and ready for the next manufacturing step. It's a very simple method and not highly sophisticated, thus, metal objects made this way are subject to small manufacturing idiosyncrasies (pock marks, burrs and wavy surfaces). In the case of this Italian sand-cast pewter photo frame, little flaws simply serve to add charm to the piece—and underline the frame's handmade bona fides. Shown above, a 5x5 frame with tight all-over stippling. It is one of many...
If you ask me, The Gothic remains the highpoint of all architectural design—followed closely by the Gothic Revival. I love the soaring look, the interplay of heavy and light, and (especially) the handcraft which adorns all Gothic structures. Add to that the fact that some Gothic structures are approaching their one thousandth birthday! These bookends—two arched windows, each one trimmed with a bit of trailing ivy—were made in the 1920's and provide a light touch of Gothic genius. They are heavy and handsome—and would look great on your bookshelf, desk or mantelpiece. Please click on the photo above to learn more about them. More Father's Day gift ideas tomorrow. LEO Design's Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed. While we...
"The Song of Hiawatha" is an epic poem by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, published in 1855. It follows a number of American Indian characters—notably the warrior Hiawatha and his lover Minnehaha—along the southern shore of Lake Superior. It was an immediate success, selling over 50,000 copies in its first two years, and it created an indelible impression of Indian life and people in the popular imagination. Critics view the poem as the romantic creation of a non-native writer and Longfellow's source materials and understanding of real Native American culture have been called into question. Nevertheless, it is a monumental work of American Romantic literature and it played an important role in Nineteenth Century popular culture. The bookends, above, present quotes from the...
One day ago, in 1878, José Doroteo Arango Arámbula was born in the small village of San Juan del Rio, Mexico. He is best known by his nickname, Pancho Villa, and was a key figure in the Mexican Revolution which began in 1910. Pancho Villa and his fighters supported Francisco Madero, an advocate of democracy […]
On this day in 1922, the Lincoln Memorial was dedicated and opened to the public on the National Mall in Washington D.C. In attendance was the 16th President’s only surviving child, 79 year-old Robert Todd Lincoln. Begun in 1914, with funds approved by Congress, the Beaux-Arts, Greek Doric Temple was designed by architect Henry Bacon […]
Shields serve a purpose: to protect its bearer from harm be it arrows, lances or clubs. Functional, utilitarian shields should be strong and light, making them portable and effective. The less embellishment they have, the more practical they become. With decorative dress shields, however, the goal is to impress—with wealth, style or military might. Dress […]
It's graduation time! And—whether you're leaving high school, college or medical school—it's nice to commemorate the achievement. How about a pair of bookends? Handsome and practical, they will remind you of this special milestone—not to mention, the generous person who presented them to you. This pair of heavy cast-iron bookends were made in the 1920’s by Bradley & Hubbard (Meriden, Connecticut). Despite their drowsy appearance, these monks are fully able to hold up the heaviest of text books—while continuing their science and study. Please click on the photo to learn more about them.
Owls have long been associated with wisdom, knowledge, vision and judgement. The ancient Greek goddess of wisdom, Athena (after whom Athens is named), often was depicted with a little owl. The same is true of Minerva, Athena’s Roman version. And, in ancient times, an owl spotted during a time of crises was considered a very […]
Until recently, England’s Queen Victoria had been the longest-reigning monarch in British history. Some of England’s greatest achievements (and changes) have occurred under a woman’s crown. Each of the “Big Three” (Elizabeth, Victoria and Elizabeth II) enjoyed long reigns and it’s fascinating to contemplate how much the world (and their country) changed during the course […]
Let the countdown begin! Two months 'til LEO!
The day this noble beast followed me home, I photographed him and popped him right onto the website! Beautifully sculpted—and, alas, so much better-looking in-person—this bronze-clad sculpture captures the confident strength (and muscles) of the King of All Animals. Made in the 1920's, he's based on the original design by Antoine-Louis Bayre, the French anamalier extraordinaire from the Nineteenth Century. Please click on the photo above to learn more about him.
Noble steeds strain against the bit—eager for the tournament to begin. Atop them, mounted knights gird themselves for the battle, lances in-hand. Let this pair of bronze-clad bookends add a bit of majesty (or at least a little pomp) to your desk, den or library. Made in the 1920’s, they still retain an impressive portion […]
I love letter racks! Perhaps it’s my ambition to impose organization upon my desk . . . someday. Perhaps I like the combination of antique style and present-day practicality. Or, perhaps, I just like possessing the relic of an imagined, distant, more-orderly time. Shown above: a Nineteenth Century Victorian American letter rack with a […]
In the late Nineteenth and early Twentieth Centuries, England was crazy for all themes Asian—tea, ceramics, wallpaper, even light opera. Apparently the infatuation continued through the Twenties and Thirties, as evidenced by these English cast brass Pekingese bookends. Crisply cast—from two separate “mirrored” molds—the sculptor artfully conveyed the “entitled personalities” of these precious pups. Please […]
There’s a long and impressive history of fine metal-tooling throughout the Middle East and North Africa—especially on seemingly utilitarian objects like trays, pots, lanterns and table tops. Since much of the Middle East and North Africa is Islamic, local craftsmen observe the strictures of their religion (to greater or lesser degrees) when it comes to […]
A special Mother’s Day wish for all moms—and for all the women who give selflessly of themselves for the benefit of others. Thank you! Shown above, an attentive mare relaxes and grazes while her inquisitive foal heads-off exploring. Cast of bronze, the mare is $95 and the foal is $68. Please come into the shop […]
Another English Arts & Crafts brass tray—part of our ever-expanding collection—is shown above. Made by Joseph Sankey & Son, it looks across the English Channel for inspiration from the French Art Nouveau. Please click on the photo to learm more about it.
Here's an exquisite gift idea for Mother's Day—as beautifully executed a piece of metalsmithing as we’ve ever had. A scrolling, Art Nouveau botanical motif is repeatedly rendered in each quadrant of this octagonal brass tray. Not only is the design beautifully voluptuous, it is executed crisply and with great precision—obviously the work of a master craftsman. This tray typifies the “more-formal” dimension of the British Arts & Crafts movement, though it would also be sensational (and useful!) in either a highly-modern or rustic country milieu.
I've assembled a collection of handsome English Arts & Crafts brass trays from the turn-of-the-century. Though each is crafted of hand-hammered brass, each is quite different, indeed. Over the next few days, I’ll share three of these trays with you.
Shown above, the work of an accomplished metalsmith. Intertwined shamrocks, thistles, and Tudor roses—representing Ireland, Scotland, and England—bloom along the oval track of this brass English Arts & Crafts tray. Please come into the shop to appreciate it in-person or click on the photo above to learn more about it.
Another tray tomorrow.
On this evening in 1824, with his musical score positioned before him, composer Ludwig van Beethoven stood at the edge of the stage of the jam-packed Theatre am Kärntnertor in Vienna, Austria. The audience was abuzz and the largest orchestra ever assembled for the composer was at-the-ready, prepared to debut Beethoven’s newest (and final) work, […]
A regal lion holds court from this handsome pair of cast iron bookends, made in the 1920’s. Newly in-store, they’d be a great gift idea for your favorite Leo (which begins less than three months from now)—or person of any sun sign. Please click on the photo to learn more about them or come into […]
This sweet trio of bears—Mama, First Born and Second Born—is cast in bronze then hand-finished, patinated and buffed. Individually or as a group, these little critters will remind Mom of her cute little cubs. Mama: $38. Cubs: $28 each. Please come into the shop to see them or call for further information. More Mother’s Day […]
Today is “Star Wars Day,” a day on which sci-fi geeks and film buffs celebrate all things Star Wars. The date, May 4th, was chosen because it sounds like the iconic phrase “May the Force be with you.” The first organized celebration was held in Toronto in 2011. Activities included a trivia game show, a […]
On this day in 1955, the Pulitzer Prize for Drama was awarded to “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” by playwright Tennessee Williams. The judging committee, comprised of four critics and one academic, had always been subject to override by the Pulitzer organization—and, in this instance, Joseph Pulitzer, Jr. lobbied hard on behalf of Tennessee […]
Welcome, May, and your birthstone: the Emerald! There are only four precious gemstones—and emeralds are one of them, making them highly valuable. And because emeralds are so susceptible to flaws, a perfect emerald is extremely rare. For this reason, emeralds traditionally are graded with the naked eye (not high magnification) which creates a little extra tolerance for the beautiful green gem. Like other gemstones, color is paramount; great emeralds have a deep, bright color. But clarity is also very important—more so than with most other stones. Emeralds are a variety of Beryl and its green color is due to chromium "impurities" within the stone. They were mined in Egypt as early as 1500 BC. They've also been found in the New...
The worldwide Arts & Crafts movement—Art Nouveau, Jugendstil, Secessionist, Mission—shared many similarities, including the revival of earlier historical or aesthetic elements. One of the classic touchstones is The Gothic.
This pair of German Jugendstil bookends are made of hand-hammered steel, punctuated with riveted steel edging. Their thin profile makes them well-suited to a book collection with limited space for a thicker, heavier bookend. Please click on the photo above to learn more about them.
LEO Design's Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed. While we contemplate our next shop location, please visit our on-line store which continues to operate (www.LEOdesignNYC.com).
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A happy fish swims by—solo—in his undersea Garden of Eden. Made in Edwardian England (c. 1910), it will bring a touch of stately whimsy to your desk or hall table. Please click on the photo above to learn more about it.
LEO Design's Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed. While we contemplate our next shop location, please visit our on-line store which continues to operate (www.LEOdesignNYC.com).
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Alfons Maria Mucha (1860-1939) was born in Moravia, today a part of the Czech Republic. He went to high school at the "Gymnázium Brno" while he pursued his passion for drawing. He made money by singing in the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul (in Brno) where he was artistically inspired by the church's Baroque interiors and he befriended the great (future) Czech composer, Leoš Janáček. He took jobs as a decorative painter, mostly painting theatrical scenery. Eventually he was hired-away to paint stage scenery in Vienna—the cultural center of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Mucha studied in Munich and Paris—where he stumbled upon a lucky break. While visiting a Paris print shop in 1894, he learned that the play Gismonda, staring...
On this day in 1616, William Shakespeare, perhaps the world’s greatest-ever writer, died at 52 years of age. It was one month after signing his will—which began with a convincing proclamation of his vigorous health. While we don’t know how or why he died, one written account (half a century later) describes a night […]
On this day in 753 BC (or so the story goes), twin brothers Romulus and Remus founded the great city of Rome. Happy Birthday, Rome! But the story before this founding is as wild and interesting as anything that came after it. Romulus and Remus were the grandsons of Numitor, King of Alba Longa (along […]
I really love hand-hammered copper—and this pair of American Arts & Crafts bookends really scratches that itch. Made around 1910, they boast varying hand-tooling techniques and are finished with a hand-painted emblem. Signed "Craftsman." See them in our on-line store by clicking on the photo above.
LEO Design's Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed. While we contemplate our next shop location, please visit our on-line store which continues to operate (www.LEOdesignNYC.com).
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A pair of dramatically-sculpted bison will stampede across your bookshelf in this handsome pair of bronze-clad bookends, made in the 1920's. Enormous herds of bison roamed the American grasslands until the Nineteenth Century, when they were hunted to near-extinction. Today, small herds have made a comeback—mostly in National parks. Weighing upwards of 2,200 pounds, the animal is the largest "bovid" in the world and the largest wild land animal in the Americas. Please click upon the photo above to learn more about these bookends. LEO Design's Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed. While we contemplate our next shop location, please visit our on-line store which continues to operate (www.LEOdesignNYC.com). Follow us on Instagram: "leodesignhandsomegifts" Follow us on Facebook:...
Notre Dame de Paris is one of the World's great cathedrals. The name means "Our Lady of Paris" and refers to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Construction was begun in 1163 and continued for the next 182 years. It was built in the "new" French Gothic style on the Île de la Cité—a natural island floating within the Seine—which was the defensible center of Medieval Paris. The building, including its many gargoyles and chimera, was originally colored though (after 800 years) the paint has mostly worn off. And the structure is the first building in the world to employ "flying buttresses"—the arched ribs which hold-up the cathedral's walls. Two bell towers stand at the front of the church. In the Southern...
On this day in 1865—at 10:15 pm—beloved president Abraham Lincoln was fatally shot by actor, racist and Confederate patriot John Wilkes Booth. Lincoln died the next morning at 7:22. Five days earlier, Confederate general Robert E. Lee had surrendered to Union general Ulysses S. Grant, thus ending the Civil War. Booth was bitter over the […]
On this day in 1796, America’s first elephant arrived in New York City. Captain Jacob Crowninshield purchased her in India and sailed from Calcutta. The captain bought her on speculation—for $450, including transit—expecting he could profit from exhibiting her. And exhibit her he did! For more than a dozen years, she was trundled from New […]
Rodin first created "Le Penseur" in 1880 as part of a larger sculpted grouping called "The Gates of Hell." The work was based on Dante's The Divine Comedy. It wasn't until 1904 that the first large stand-alone casting was made—and the broad public got its first exposure to a work which perfectly suited the times. Psychology increasingly was viewed as a legitimate science and the public was intrigued with the human mind and the theories of Sigmund Freud. "The Thinker" became an icon of the Turn-of-the-Century zeitgeist. The bookends shown above were made in the 1920's—when "The Thinker" was still a relatively recent novelty. First, an artful and accurate model—which captured the spirit and energy of Rodin's original—had to be sculpted. From this...
Today is Hans Christian Andersen’s birthday—as well as International Children’s Book Day. Begun in 1967, the day is dedicated to promoting books and reading amongst young people. Each year a different country is asked to “host” the celebration; that country picks a theme, organizes events, and selects a local author and illustrator (who designs that […]
A joyous Easter to my Christian customers—and a wonderful Springtime to all!
This little jackrabbit is ready to hop off to your desk, bookshelf or mantelpiece. Please click on the photo above to learn more about him.
LEO Design's Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed. While we contemplate our next shop location, please visit our on-line store which continues to operate (www.LEOdesignNYC.com).
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On this day in 1842, Georgia physician Crawford Williamson Long, M.D., became the first doctor to use ether for surgical anesthetization. In 1990, Congress declared 30 March “National Doctors’ Day,” a day on which doctors are honored and their contributions to society are recognized. Around the world, different countries honor their doctors on different days […]
Today is World Theatre Day, celebrated each 27 March. Each year, an internationally-recognized theatre luminary is selected to compose and circulate an International Message, reflecting on the importance of theatre to the world and human culture. This year’s Message is written by Polish stage director Krzysztof Warlikowski. As theatre luminaries go, who could top The […]
Ludwig von Beethoven—perhaps the world’s greatest composer—was born to a family of musicians in Bonn, Germany in 1770. Both his father and grandfather were singers and musicians. Ludwig’s father, Johann, was his first piano teacher and, by all accounts, a strict one. Johann recognized his son’s performing genius and attempted to exploit his talent as […]
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow was born on 27 February 1807 in Portland, Maine. An industrious and able student, with a love of books and a talent for writing, he mastered Latin while still a young boy. At 15, he started at Bowdoin College where he befriended Nathaniel Hawthorne, who was to become a lifelong friend. While in […]
With a trumpet blast, this handsome tusker makes his recent arrival known! Though going-on ninety, he’s no worse for wear—in fact, he’s developed the wonderful patina of time. And he’ll work as hard as ever, holding-up your favorite books with style and confidence. Please come into the shop to see him in-person or click on […]
On this day in 1918, Congress established U.S. time zones and Daylight Savings Time. In the Nineteenth Century, once clocks had become widespread, every city, town, or village would keep its own time—much as it always had—based roughly on the sun’s passing overhead. Usually a town hall or church would establish the time and everyone […]
Look who scampered in today! With the all the character—and the energy—of the real thing, this sculpture slouches perfectly on a desk, coffee table or bookcase. He could even be used as a bookend or doorstop. Please come in to visit (and, perhaps, adopt) him or click on the photo above to learn more about […]
I love visiting Scotland. And I love most things Scots—especially the Scottish Arts & Crafts. Therefore, I’m thrilled to have acquired, from turn-of-the-century Glasgow, a handsome, hand-hammered, brass-framed “looking glass”—embellished with a rich border of stylized, scrolling, sinewy botanicals. The Scots are a hearty lot; life eeked-out on the rocky, windswept land is not for […]
In the final third of the Nineteenth Century, the West—and Britain in particular—became fascinated with the art and craft of the Japanese (who recently had ended 250 years of self-imposed isolation from the West). For the first time in generations, Japanese-made objets were available in the West, at least to those who could afford them. […]
Pewter is an alloy—that is, a “mixed metal”—of mostly tin and a little copper, plus antimony (a hardner) and bismuth. In old pewter, sometimes lead was used, though today’s pewter is usually lead-free (especially for food-related items). Additionally, sterling silver is sometimes included (especially on pieces with complex designs, where a bit of sparkle is […]
“Repoussé” is a French adjective meaning “pushed up,” derived from the Latin “pulsare,” which means “to push.” In metalwork, it refers to the process of hammering a malleable metal from the reverse side, creating a low relief design on the front. After “Repoussage” (the noun form of repoussé) has been achieved, the design on the […]
“The God-given natural forms of leaves and flowers must be more perfect and beautiful than any invention of man.” – Augustus Pugin (1812-1852) With great strides being made in the advancement of scientific knowledge, botany was much-studied and better-understood. Although the compound microscope was a Renaissance invention (thank Galileo), it was not until the 1830’s […]
The Arts & Crafts Movement—whether it happened to take place in England, America, or Continental Europe—would frequently look back to the motifs, icons, and stylistic flourishes of that culture’s earlier peoples. Americans “lifted” Native American symbols. The English loved reviving Medieval literary themes. One of my favorite backward-looking references is to The Gothic. This English […]
Gung Hay Fat Choy! And a happy Year of the Dog! The dog is the eleventh sign in the lunar zodiac—and a popular one, too! And this year, we celebrate the "Earth Dog." Known for their tenaciousness, dogs won't let go of their bone once they have it. And this fierceness translates to their personal loyalty as well; they will never abandon their friends, famiy or work. For this reason, dogs are often sought for their good advice—good honest advice. At times, this brutal honesty can be mistaken for brusqueness. In truth, dogs just want their critiques to help improve people and situations. Despite their popularity, and the confidence they engender, dogs are often quite anxious deep inside. Dogs get...
In the Nineteenth Century, in England (and other parts of Europe), a lovely and short-lived garden bloomed: The Aesthetes. This collection of writers, artists, designers, and educators believed that Beauty was amongst life’s highest ideals—”Art for Art’s Sake” was their mantra. The Arts (including music, theatre, decorative and fine arts) should strive to provide refined, […]
Today's a red letter day at LEO Design—we launch our new and improved website! While our older website has served us well for several years, we wanted a site that allowed for bigger, better product pictures and would be reliable (under the hood) for years to come. Our new site allows customers to contact us via e-mail and jump directly to our Instagram and Facebook accounts. We hope you like it! Mountains of credit go to my webmaster extraordinaire, Brad Soucy, who created this new site—despite a super-busy life as a father, husband and technology bigwig at Virginia Tech. If he weren't so busy, I'd propose all of you hire him. You'd not regret it! He's a talented artist, a super person...
The U.S. Capitol building—one of Washington D.C.’s cardinal landmarks—sits atop a hill, overlooking the Washington Mall. It’s most basic function is to house the two chambers of the Congress, although many other important occasions are celebrated or performed there. Presidents are usually inaugurated upon an exterior platform built off the West façade (which overlooks the […]
Durante degli Alighieri—best known as “Dante”—was born in Florence, Italy about the year 1265 (the best estimate of literary scholars). He is considered the greatest-ever writer in the Italian language and, indeed, is amongst the most important poets in the world. His signature works, The Divine Comedies, trace his travels through the Inferno (Hell), Purgatorio, […]
Alongside his buxom companion, “Day” rests also atop the tomb of Giuliano de’ Medici, Duke of Nemours. Carved by Michelangelo between 1526 and 1531, this muscular, male nude has been described “as intensely alert as a recumbent form can be.” “Day” and “Night” are but two of seven sculptures by Michelangelo to be found in […]
Long before Cole Porter wrote his brilliant and witty tune, another (earlier) artistic genius explored the themes of “Night and Day.” Michelangelo Buonarroti—premier Florentine Renaissance giant—sculpted a pair of imposing marble nudes which he draped upon the tomb of Giuliano de’ Medici (Duke of Nemours) in the Basilica di San Lorenzo in Florence. Created between […]
On this day in 1813, “Pride & Prejudice” was published in London—attributed only to “the author of ‘Sense & Sensibility’.” Today we know the author was Jane Austen. We also know the book was long in coming. Jane Austen began writing the book in 1796 and titled it “First Impression.” The next year, her father […]
On this day in 1832, Charles Lutwidge Dodgson was born. He studied and taught mathematics at Oxford, excelled in the new art form, photography, was an Anglican Deacon, and wrote poetry and books—under the pen name, Lewis Carroll. While teaching at Oxford, he befriended a new dean, Henry Liddell, his wife and children. The youngest […]
Antoine-Louis Barye was a Parisian Animalier—a sculptor of animals. He was born in 1796 and got his start as an apprentice under Napoleon’s goldsmith. In 1816, he was admitted to the Ecole des Beaux Arts where he pursued sculpture—initially honing his talent with medallions and bas relief works. Barye enjoyed spending time sketching animals of the […]
American sculptor Cyrus Dallin (1861 – 1944) unveiled his masterpiece, “Appeal to the Great Spirit,” in Paris in 1909—where it won the gold medal at that year’s Paris Salon. It became popular immediately—especially in America—and the image has been used everywhere from advertising to album covers. Smaller copies of the work have been made and installed across […]
Following the Bronze Age, the Iron Age was the period in which iron and steel were developed for tools, weapons and other objects. Iron—a pure element found in rocks called “iron ore”—was more difficult to extract than the copper and tin used for the earlier bronze. However, once smelted, iron was easier and cheaper to […]
Bronze is an alloy (a “blended” metal) of copper (generally 88%) and tin (12%)—though the mixture is often manipulated depending upon the intended use of the crafted object. The first known use of bronze was in what is modern-day Iran, around 3600 BC. The name, “bronze,” is derived from the Italian bronzo (from the Latin […]
We end our procession of newly-acquired vintage bookends with this extraordinary pair dated 1922. The bas relief was sculpted by artist Olga Popoff Muller as a special commission for the New York Decorative Arts League. It depicts a quiet, domestic scene from the 16th president’s life, inspired by an 1864 photo by Matthew Brady. The seated Lincoln […]
Amongst the new collection of recently-acquired bookends is this strange and wonderful pair. A charioteer drives his team of four horses—limbs out-stretched, nostrils flaring—as he races around the ancient circus. While I’ve bought and sold many-a-pair of horse-themed bookends over the years, seldom has the sculptor contained so much frantic energy and motion in so […]
Ever feel like you've had enough? It seems to be going around. Another day—another news cycle. Turn your despair into beauty (well, a little bit) with this handsome pair of Art Nouveau bookends from the 1920's. Our bronze-clad scholars "rest their eyes" for a moment. Perhaps they've just heard the latest tweet? Click on the photo above to learn more about them.
LEO Design's Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed. While we contemplate our next shop location, please visit our on-line store which continues to operate (www.LEOdesignNYC.com).
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The Gothic is, in my opinion, the high point of human architectural design. Begun in France in the 1100’s, the style was originally called Opus Francigenum (or “French Work”) due to its strong association with the French. It spread throughout Europe and remained en vogue until the Renaissance, some 400 years later. It was most commonly […]
The Arts & Crafts movement promoted the idea of the hand-made. And while such objects could be quite finessed, some pieces enjoyed a more naive, folk art aesthetic. An example in point is the hand-hammered copper tray, shown above. Beaten of heavy copper, the raised edges are further decorated with scalloping and hand-cut piercing. The […]
When the Woolworth Building was completed in 1913, at 792 feet it was the tallest building in the world—and would remain so until the Chrysler Building surpassed it in 1930. Employing state-of-the-art principles like steel frame construction and high-speed elevators, the Woolworth Building paved the way for even taller skyscrapers in the future. Yet, despite […]
The Arts & Crafts movement—and her corresponding “cousins” in other countries—was at full-flourish in the 1910’s, the same decade that brought us “The War to End All Wars.” Wars have a way of changing everything: populations, hierarchies, habits, even the decorative arts. During wartime, “frivolous indulgences” are usually relegated to the back burner while all […]
Yesterday we showed an American Arts & Crafts brass humidor which enjoyed design inspired by the Gothic. Shown above, another metal vessel of the same time period—1910-ish—but this time made in France. It was made by the Parisian couple, Alice and Eugene Chanal. Both were born in 1872. Starting about 1910, they produced a range […]
Arts & Crafts design often was influenced by other, earlier aesthetic movements: native cultures, heraldry, the medieval. The designer of the brass humidor, shown above, tapped into the Gothic—as shown in the steel “strapwork” riveted to the sides and tops of the canister. It captures a bit of what I call “Jules Verne Futurism”—a vision […]
Scare away the winter’s chill with this pair of nicely-cast iron bookends from the 1930’s. Made by Bradley & Hubbard, they capture (in rather good detail) all the elements of a fireplace—right down to the bark on the logs! Interestingly, while the sculptor strove for a traditional domestic setting, the bookends are thoroughly handsome and […]
When I first discovered these beautiful photo frames—designed and made by Edgar Berebi in Providence, Rhode Island—I was astounded by their quality and old-time craftsmanship. First the frames are cast in pewter, then hand-chased (finished) to remove any flaws or rough areas. Next they are plated in 24 karat gold, enameled, and decorated with hand-set […]
While tulips always remind me of spring (and Holland), I enjoy looking at them year ’round. With this pair of American Arts & Crafts candlesticks, I could. Designed in the form of a stylized tulip, these candlesticks are hand-hammered and silver-plated. Made in Connecticut in the early Twentieth Century, they’ll bring a touch of botanical […]
A pewter dove flies over the domed lid of this faceted glass tobacco jar from the 1910's or 1920's. Originally intended to hold pipe tobacco, such a jar is perfect in the kitchen, office or bathroom—to keep handy (with style) the everyday supplies you need. Please click on the photo above to learn more about it.
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In aristocratic England, household servants were expected to serve their employers on Christmas Day. The day after Christmas, therefore, was a day of rest and celebration for working men and women—and the day on which they (and special tradesmen) would receive their "boxes" (gifts) from those whom they served. Shown above, a Victorian English painted steel hat box, c. 1860's - 1870's.
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As Geoffrey Chaucer reminds us, "Time and Tide wait for no man." Neither will Christmas (my addition). Perhaps an Italian cast pewter sandglass will keep you focused on the time. Please click on the photo above to learn more about them.
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What do you get when you combine Beauty (Art Nouveau), Wisdom (an owl) and Function (a letter holder)? You get this handsome and practical desk accessory, made in the 1910's—form, beauty and function. Perfect on a man or woman's desk, this little guy will help you keep-organized in style. Click on the photo above to learn more about it.
LEO Design's Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed. While we contemplate our next shop location, please visit our on-line store which continues to operate (www.LEOdesignNYC.com).
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Candlesticks, more or less, come in two common sizes: "Regular" and "Tiny." "Large" and "In-Between" are few and far between. Thus, it was with great excitement that I found this pair of mid-sized Victorian English Aesthetic Movement candlesticks on my last trip to England. Not only are they nicely-scaled for a dining table or dinner tray, they look great alongside one (or more) of the more typically-sized candlesticks. If you like clustering multiple pairs of candlesticks, these are the elusive "In-Betweens" that help create a variety of heights in your collection. Please click on the photo above to learn more about them. LEO Design's Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed. While we contemplate our next shop location, please...
The Art Nouveau Movement in Germany was called Jugendstil—literally "the young (or new) style." Like its sister styles throughout the world—including the Arts & Crafts—the Jugendstil promoted the use of handcraft, unadorned natural materials, organic shapes and ancient symbols or references. The hand-beaten loving cup, shown above, was made by the Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik (WMF), a German metal workshop which had been founded in the mid-Nineteenth Century. WMF hit its artistic peak at the turn-of-the-century, coincidental with the Art Nouveau period. The hand-hammered copper cylinder is embellished with hand-tooled Celtic Knots. Two hand-cut brass salamanders become the riveted handles. Please click on the photo above to learn more about this handsome statement piece. LEO Design's Greenwich Village store is now permanently...
A whimsical moustache crowns this hand-hammered copper English Arts & Crafts photo frame, further embellished with a perimeter of bosses. Made around 1900, it will still bring handsome distinction to a favorite portrait or other photo. Please click on the photo above to learn more about it.
LEO Design's Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed. While we contemplate our next shop location, please visit our on-line store which continues to operate (www.LEOdesignNYC.com).
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Let's end our procession of photo frames with this offering from Turn-of the-Century England. A handsome oval is topped with a festoon of ribbon. It's a lovely, classic treatment for a favorite vintage photo. You'll learn more about it by clicking on the photo above. And see our full range of vintage frames in our on-line store.
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A "Snaffle" is a style of equestrian "bit"—that is, the metal device held in the mouth of a horse which allows the rider to control his steed. And, considering England's horsey heritage, an equestrian aesthetic should be a tried-and-true favorite. This little brass frame, made in the 1880's or 1890's, will lend a handsome (and horsey) feeling to your bookshelf, mantlepiece or bedside. Please click on the photo above to learn more about this frame. More vintage frames tomorrow. LEO Design's Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed. While we contemplate our next shop location, please visit our on-line store which continues to operate (www.LEOdesignNYC.com). Follow us on Instagram: "leodesignhandsomegifts" Follow us on Facebook: "LEO Design - Handsome Gifts"...
Frames with "Oxford Corners," like on the frame shown above, were not invented in Victorian England. One can find the occasional example throughout history. But, during the Mid-Nineteenth Century's Gothic Revival, "Oxford Frames" became quite the rage. Perhaps the "churchy" sensibility of the crosses suited the heavy, dark aesthetic of the times. Yet they have a remarkably clean and modern look—making them perfect in a room full of antiques or a room screaming Mid-Century Modern. Click on the photo above to learn more about this frame. More vintage frames tomorrow. LEO Design's Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed. While we contemplate our next shop location, please visit our on-line store which continues to operate (www.LEOdesignNYC.com). Follow us on...
Now to France—where this frame was made in the 1920's. A garland of fleurs-de-lys surround the circle, the perfect surround for any face you love. Click on the photo above to learn more about this frame.
More vintage frames tomorrow.
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Here's something a little different—and sweet. It's a Victorian English double brass chain frame, c. 1880's - 1890's. Pop-in your two little Munchkins and your Mom will be forever grateful. Note the frame's current inhabitants: two tiny embroideries! Click on the photo to learn more about this frame.
More vintage frames tomorrow.
LEO Design's Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed. While we contemplate our next shop location, please visit our on-line store which continues to operate (www.LEOdesignNYC.com).
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Everyone loves to receive a photo—parents, grandparents, godparents and more. Slipped into a handsome vintage frame, a simple photo can be elevated to a whole new level. Since most of our frames are from the late Nineteenth or early Twentieth Centuries, they tend to be small—which is not all bad. A small frame takes up less space; it can be placed into a tight spot or in front of larger objects (other frames). And giving a small frame (and picture) as a gift, means a smaller space imposition required of the recipient. The frame above was made in Victorian England, c. 1880's - 1890's. The brass chain fits easily within any decorative aesthetic—whether a feminine dressing table or a masculine...
This Edwardian English brass turtle, made around 1905, stands up off the ground and has a hinged-shell lid. It's a nice place to keep a spare key, a few pairs of cufflinks, matches on a mantlepiece or clips on a busy desk. Please click on the photo above to learn more about him. And take a look at our nice collection of Handsome Gifts for the Holidays—many just acquired on an English buying trip.
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I once spent a short week in Budapest, Hungary. My, what a wonderful city! Walking through the streets (or sailing down the River Danube) one can see that the city was, indeed, once the crown jewel of Europe—and important (at different times) to the Romans, the Ottomans, the Holy Roman Empire and the Austro-Hungarian Empire (who made it their capital). Architecturally, she hit her peak in the Nineteenth Century and kept going right through the Art Nouveau period. When the Soviets took-over (1948 - 1989), the building largely stopped—though, perversely, this lack of "modernizing" may have helped to preserve the wonderful, older architecture. Amongst Budapest's many wonders is the Kerepesi Cemetery. Opened in 1847, it is loaded with theatrical, late-Nineteenth Century statuary...
This perky pair of pups—Boston Terriers—will push-up your precious publications. Made in the 1920's, these cast iron canines are nicely-modeled and finished with a golden patina. They really have a lot of attitude—not to mention, style. Perhaps they'd be cherished by a Boston Terrier keeper—or any dog lover. Click on the photo to learn more about them. On our website, you'll also see many other handsome pairs of bookends.
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America's 16th president is captured—in crisp, bas relief profile—on this pair of 1930's cast iron bookends. A little Neo-Classical, a little Art Deco, they will make a handsome (and useful) addition to the library of your favorite historian, lawyer or president-to-be. Click on the photo above to learn more about them. And while you're on the website, check-out our large collection of bookends—a gift sure to be appreciated by any bibliophile.
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Books are associated with study, wisdom and erudition. With this in mind, an aging scholar—"Ye Philosopher"—studies his scroll while holding-up your books. These heavy, bronze-clad beauties were made in the 1920's—and they work as well as they ever did. Please click on the photo above to learn more about them and check out our on-line shop where we have dozens of handsome bookends—which make the perfect Handsome Gift!
LEO Design's Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed. While we contemplate our next shop location, please visit our on-line store which continues to operate (www.LEOdesignNYC.com).
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For the past two days, we've been looking at the precursors of the modern bookend—specifically, book racks or "slides" designed to hold a small collection upon a desk, table or shelf. In the Twentieth Century, with the expansion of the Middle Class (with its new-found wealth and significant disposable income), books were found in more and more homes. This was a great time for the publishing business—and a great time for the foundries which made bookends! The 1920's and 1930's, the period between the Wars, is sometimes called "The Golden Age of Bookends." We have a large collection of bookends made during this Golden Age. Shown above, a pair of English brass bookends from the 1930's. A pair of spaniels...
Here's another Victorian English folding book slide, made in the 1870's - 1890's. Heavy rosewood is decorated with hand-pierced brass mountings which are riveted to the wood. Like yesterday's posting, this one has a Jacobean Revival aesthetic. It will slide open to hold from about eight to a dozen books. A perfect way to honor your special collection or to keep-handy your most-used reference books. Click on the photo above to learn more about it. And visit our website to see our collection of "Handsome Gifts"—many of them newly-acquired. LEO Design's Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed. While we contemplate our next shop location, please visit our on-line store which continues to operate (www.LEOdesignNYC.com). Follow us on Instagram:...
In the old days, only the wealthiest could afford a library. A wall filled with books was a sign of intelligence, worldliness and lots of money. Poor people might have two or three books, including a Bible. And middle class families might have a dozen books—including poetry, a cooking book, an atlas and a few other reference books. For such a middle class booklover, a desktop "book slide" (or book rack), shown above, would suit his needs. Perched upon the desk, it kept those cherished books close-at-hand. This folding book rack—embellished with hand-cut brass and riveted bone strips—was made in Victorian England, c. 1880. It revives the style of the Jaccobean period, some 350 years earlier. "Modern" pairs of bookends,...
