The story of this vase began far-away, in Mid-Twentieth Century India. Its life became even more interesting—if not a bit more glamorous—when it traveled half-way around the world to represent its country at the 1964 NYC World's Fair. After being loaded onto a cargo ship in Bombay (now called Mumbai), it sailed across the Arabian Sea, into the Gulf of Aden, and up the Red Sea to the Suez Canal. Once it hit the Mediterranean Sea, it sailed West, across the full breadth of the Mediterranean, and out the Straits of Gibraltar into the Atlantic. Now it sailed straight-on to New York—and the World's Fair! When I purchased this vase, the elderly owner recounted how she had received it as...
While the Arts & Crafts movement was a reaction to (and a rejection of) the rapacious Industrial Revolution, one has to concede that this design movement came at a time when mechanized production did indeed make manufacturing less expensive (thereby making nice items more affordable for more people). The English Arts & Crafts frame, shown above, is just such an example. This frame is clearly an Arts & Crafts design: the stylized flowers, the interwoven, "whiplash" stems, the embrace of the metal's aesthetic nature. But this frame was not laboriously hand-tooled; instead, this steel photo frame was carefully embossed on a metal shop die-press. Then the steel was patinated with a warm, copper-ish finish. Great artistry went into designing the frame—and...
The closer we get to America's Semiquincentennial, the more I'm admiring Canada. Perhaps I'm just longing for the competence, judgement and sensibility (not to mention, the politesse) which the two neighbors once shared in-common. Now, we kill science; they have health care. We have oil spills; they have maple syrup. We have a cage match; they have Heated Rivalry. One of Canada's most iconic symbols is the beaver. This probably harkens-back to the critical importance of beavers to colonial Canadians in the 17th, 18th and 19th Centuries. Fur trapping was a significant business and many of the pelts were shipped to Europe (for hats, coats, collars and muffs). The Canadian merchant, Hudson's Bay Company, got its start (in 1670)...
After the American Civil War, Union officer Silas Augustine Ilsley (1840-1918) returned to New York City where he founded a Brooklyn tin factory in 1865. Over the next 25 years, he developed novel methods of applying lithographic printing to metalware—boxes, cans, shop containers—and became an important supplier of handsome packaging to many other 19th Century businesses. His five story factory measured 100' x 150' at the corner of Adams and York Streets (in what is now a modern intersection in hipster DUMBO—"Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass"). Ilsley's business boomed and he employed as many as 350 "men and girls."
Welcome, June, and your beloved birth flower, the Rose. Throughout the world, roses are probably the most popular of all flowering plants. Members of the Rosaceae family, they were native to Asia, though a few species developed in Europe, North America and parts of Africa. Over the centuries, tens of thousands of cultivars and hybrids have been developed by mankind. Today's most common "garden variety" roses are descendants of Chinese roses, brought to the West by traders in the 1700's. The botanical importance of roses is exceeded by their cultural, historical, emotional, mythological and romantic associations. The colors of roses have become associated with different types of feelings: red roses indicate love and sexual passion; white conveys purity and innocence; yellow...
Although Mercury was not amongst the earliest of Roman gods, he eventually became one of the most popular. He evolved from the Greek deity, Hermes, and served as the mischievous, fleet-of-foot messenger of the gods. He is the god of luck, commerce, travel, and merchants. He also was amongst the few gods who was allowed to cross into the Underworld and back. Thus, he often accompanied and guided souls to the afterlife. Mercury enjoyed an impeccable ancestry; his father was Jupiter, the king of the gods, and his mother was Maia, the daughter of Atlas. Mercury is usually shown wearing winged sandals (talaria) and/or a winged helmet (petasos), fashioned for him by Vulcan, the god of fire. These wings have...
King Arthur was never central to Swiss local legend or folklore. But the Black Forest region of Switzerland was very popular with wealthy Nineteenth Century British travelers—each of whom wanted to take-home a handsome hand-carved souvenir of their journey. The hand-carved walnut corbel shelf, shown above, was likely made to appeal to a visiting British or European traveler. Brienz, in particular, was a popular (and picturesque) village, nestled between a turquoise llake and the towering mountains. This was the center of the Swiss Black Forest woodcarving industry—and a memorable point on many European Grand Tour itineraries in the Nineteenth and early Twentieth Centuries.
The "Barley Twist" column is first referenced in ancient architectural history, specifically their use in Jerusalem's Temple of Solomon (which is why they are also known as "Solomonic Columns"). "Barley Twist" is the English name for the design, thanks to its resemblance to British barley candy twists which share a similar corkscrew shape. Barley twist columns can be executed in wood, stone, bronze and other metals. During the European Renaissance and Baroque periods—when many artistic conventions from the ancient world were revived—the barley twist became fashionable in architecture, furniture, sculpture and other decorative arts. One of the finest (and boldest) examples of Baroque Solomonic columns are found supporting the bronze Baldacchino over the main altar in Saint Peter Basilica, Rome...
Joaquin Sorolla (1863-1923) is the great Spanish painter of whom I had known very little—though his style, themes and time period ticks all the boxes of my favorite paintings. His luminous pictures—frequently capturing people near the seashore—sparkle with glancing light. And his bravura brushwork is spontaneous, bold and confident. I think of him as Spain's John Singer Sargent. Shown above, Valencian Fishermen (1895) tend to their fishing creels while a fishing boat bobs in the background surf. Sorolla shows the light coming-in from behind the men which darkens their features while illuminating the seafoam brilliantly. This is the kind of "men-at-work" paintings I like; real people, authentically active in their craft or trade. Sorolla painted plenty of commissioned portraits....
To me, the most charming sight in London's National Gallery was seeing this young artist, hard at work. He was seated on the herringbone floor of the storied museum, sketching like mad. Did he understand and appreciate the wealth of treasures to be found in that very room? Surrounded by priceless Sixteenth Century Venetian masterpieces? I suppose it doesn't matter; he will in time. What's important is that he, just like those Venetian masters before him—Titian, Veronese, Tintoretto—is attacking his work with determination and a desire to improve. In today's world of computer-generated . . . everything . . . it's nice to see that the fundamentals of human creativity and the hand-production of beauty are still being pursued.
As I stroll through a museum, snapping pictures of the paintings which most catch my eye, my camera roll inevitably fills-up with portraits of alluring men. More often than not, I am drawn to the portraits of "real" people—usually men shown in the pursuit of their profession, craft or trade. Occasionally an aristocratic personality will sneak-by (and that's okay). But I most like those paintings which show interesting (and attractive) fellows who probably were asked to sit for the artist. Good portraitists make their livings painting people who pay commissions for their service (whether or not the subject is interesting to the artist). But good portraitists sometimes select their own subjects because they wish to paint that person (not to...
Francisco de Zurbarán (1598-1664) was a remarkable Spanish Baroque painter, sometimes called "the Caravaggio of Spain" for his moody and brooding pictures using dark colors and chiaroscuro shading. His lifetime overlapped significantly with that other Spanish Baroque Master, Diego Velázquez. Most of Zurbarán's work portrayed religious themes, though he was also an accomplished still life painter. His son, Juan, became a painter and concentrated on still life images. A wonderful exhibit of Zurbarán's work has been mounted at the National Gallery in London. Included are some of his son, Juan Zurbarán's paintings, too. Shown above, Zurbarán's austere Saint Francis of Assisi in Meditation which captures the saint kneeling in silent prayer. His youthful features are just visible under the darkness...
The mysterious British graffiti artist known as "Banksy" has astounded and impressed the world (once again) with a new sculpture, somehow secretly installed in Central London two weeks ago. The puffed-up, larger-than-life sized man wears a suit and carries a flag of Nationalism. The fabric of the banner has blown into his face, blinding him—which leads him to step off the stone plinth. Banksy's statement warns us of the consequences of blind, self-righteous Nationalism. Besides being installed stealthily, in the dark of night, its placement in Waterloo Place is remarkable, too. Waterloo place—and Pall Mall which runs through it—are iconic, well-protected, "establishment" neighborhoods. They are filled with embassies, military offices, gentlemen's clubs, and many prestigious residences. Number 10 Downing Street...
I love coming to London. The friendships I've made here, over the last forty years, have changed my life. I've spent my thirtieth, fortieth and fiftieth birthdays in England. My buying trips to England—visiting shops, markets, fairs, collectors and "pickers" (from Brighton to Glasgow)—have helped me to distinguish LEO Design from my neighboring shopkeepers. And I have always availed myself of the wonderful cultural amenities London has to offer: theatre, museums and music. I also love moving-through London's incredible infrastructure. Since the Victorian Age (and possibly earlier), the people who have governed and done business in London have made it a place that works. Yes, it's large and bustling—and it contends with all the issues which afflict any place with...
The Trifecta of Renaissance Masters was Leonardo, Michelangelo, and Raffaello. In a time and place that changed Western Art, these three were at the top of the profession. The Metropolitan Museum of Art's exhibit of Raphael's work—assembled from around the world—is likely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see so many of his pictures together. Every picture is a wonder, whether a painting or a drawing. Shown above, Raphael's 1515 portrait of Florentine banker Bindo Altoviti. The sitter was still a youth, 24 or 25 years old. Raphael leaned-into the Classical ideal of radiant (youthful) male beauty—channeling Apollo Phoebus. The unusual pose had been previously captured by Leonardo, though it became more popular as this picture became increasingly famous. I love the...
After a year of hard work, my husband, Robert Perdziola, and I took our seats last night at the New York City Ballet Spring Gala. He designed the costumes for the new piece created by principal dancer and choreographer, Tiler Peck. Set to Édouard Lalo's Symphonie Espagnole, it opened the evening, followed by Balanchine's 1967 piece from the company's repertoire: Diamonds
The event was an important company fund raiser and—as it turns out—many famous actors and performers do, indeed, still like opera and ballet! Mick Jagger was the Honorary Chair and took the stage with Jimmy Fallon. A wide range of notable (non-ballet-dancing) performers lent their support.
Ahh, civilization! Hurray! I'm back in Manhattan! I love exiting a city building's doorway, taking to the sidewalk, and entering the pulsing bloodstream of New York's energy and determination and brisk purpose. For 27 years, that portal would have been the front door of my New York apartment building. Today, when I visit the City, I stay in a hotel. For all those years I had never needed—nor stayed in—a Manhattan hotel room. I always was a poor source of advice for acquaintances seeking the right lodgings. Today, we stay in the Hotel Beacon on the Upper West Side. Best of all, it is in a residential neighborhood, not predominantly tourists. There are good markets across the street:...
Visiting South Africa—several years ago—was a wonderfully enriching trip. One of the employees in the LEO Design shop was a Capetonian and he invited me for a visit. I had a great ten days exploring his city and the surrounding towns, wineries, coastlines and velds. Visiting The Cape of Good Hope was at the top of my visitor's checklist. Standing atop a rocky cliff, looking-down upon The Cape, I was overcome with the historic enormity of this most-significant geographic point on Earth. The waters are notoriously rough—not far from the point where the Indian Ocean meets the Atlantic Ocean. Circumnavigating this point—and its treacherous stretch of water—had long been a goal of European sailors (and the kings and merchants who...
On this day in 1821, Napoleone di Buonaparte, the former Emperor of France, died in exile on the remote island of St. Helena—a tiny, isolated dot in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. He was stranded over 1000 miles from the closest continent. And his British captors had no intention of permitting his escape. He was born on an island and he died on an island. Napoleon is a fascinating case study of ambition, reinvention, self-aggrandizement and the ability to generate a cult following. (Hmmm. As Mark Twain reportedly informed us, "History doesn't repeat itself, but it rhymes.") To my mind, there are so many improbabilities which should have prevented Napoleon's grand ascension. First of all, he wasn't even French!...
Happy Star Wars Day! May the Fourth be with you! This "holiday" began long, long ago . . . in a capital far, far away. Thursday 3 May 1979 was a national Election Day in the United Kingdom (two years after the Star Wars film release). The pre-election polls strongly favored the return of the Conservatives—led by Margaret Thatcher. Were the Conservatives to win (which they did), she would become the United Kingdom's first female Prime Minister (which she did). Overnight, even as the ballots were still being counted, the Conservatives boldly purchased a large advertisement in the next day's London Evening News: "Dear Maggie, May the Fourth Be with You. -Your Party Workers." Thatcher's win marked the beginning of...
I purchased these industrial pendant lampshades some 20 years ago. I had every intention of finding my own use for them: perhaps in a shop or over a shop awning; maybe in a weekend cottage; possibly in a renovated kitchen. I love the shades—and I love the fact that I have four of them! But twenty years is twenty years. It's time I let them go; perhaps a new caretaker will see them properly (and handsomely) installed. They were made in the Teens or Twenties. They are certainly industrial—both in design and in production. They may have hung in a working space (like a warehouse or factory) or, perhaps, in an office attached to such a practical space. The white...
A ring of small flower blossoms encircle this oval brass photo frame from the Turn-of-the-Twentieth-Century. The flowers are small and repetitive, thus, they almost blend-into a handsome "no pattern pattern." But, upon close inspection, the flowers appear—pert, uniform and crisp. The frame is handsome but not precious. It's a nice example of the intersection of good design and modern (c. 1900) industrial production.
Emeralds are known as "The Jewel of Kings." They are one of the four "Cardinal Gemstones," alongside diamonds, rubies and sapphires. Flawless emeralds are exceedingly rare—highly susceptible to flaws—thus, the gemstone industry allows them to be graded with the naked eye (that is, without magnification). This allows emeralds a bit of a "reprieve" from the harsh standards of other rare gemstones—as almost no specimen would pass muster under rigid scrutiny. It an emerald looks perfect to the naked eye, it is considered flawless. The most valuable color is a deep green, but one that is very clear and bright. Emeralds are a variety of Beryl, an otherwise clear mineral, which becomes green due to chromium "impurities" trapped within the stone's...
Chicory was first consumed in Ancient Egypt, followed by Greece and Rome. It is a member of the (very large) Asteraceae family which includes asters, daisies, sunflowers, cornflowers, dandelions, chrysanthemums, radicchio and Belgian endive. Chicory's culinary uses include the bright blue flower petals (sprinkled on salads), the leaves (as a bitter salad green) and the roots (which are baked and ground to powder). Ground chicory root is used as a caffeine-free coffee substitute, a sweetener or a fiber-rich ingredient added to hot chocolate, puddings, beers or baked goods. It is believed that the inulin found in the chicory root provides healthful fiber, promotes gut health, aids digestion and boosts the immune system. It is also a source of vitamins A,...
Joe DiMaggio was a giant in the world of 1940's baseball. For 13 years—his entire Major League Baseball career—he played for the New York Yankees. He won nine World Series championships, second only to his younger Yankees teammate, Yogi Berra (who won ten—a feat which no other player ever has topped). Their careers with the Yankees overlapped for six years during which they won two championships together. "Joltin' Joe" was born Giuseppe Paolo DiMaggio to Sicilian immigrants in California. His family moved to North Beach, San Francisco, where Joe's father (also named Giuseppe) hoped that his five sons would follow in his footsteps as a fisherman. But working-on (and cleaning) his father's smelly fishing boat nauseated him—which his father perceived...
Over the years, I have sold no small number of heavy, Industrial, cast iron tape dispensers—perhaps once used in a mail room, on a factory floor, or at a service desk. This Japanese oak tape dispenser is equally functional, yet, presents a very different aesthetic sensibility. It is crafted of oak and is more Modern Blocky than Streamlined Deco. And the dispenser is bottom-weighted, making it easy to use with a single hand.
Skønvirke is the Danish version of Art Nouveau. Pronounced SKURN-veer-kh, its literal translation means "beautiful work." In the late Nineteenth and early Twentieth Centuries, Danish artists, architects, jewelers and designers were influenced by the classic principles of the larger, international Art Nouveau movement: elevated handcraft, organic themes, curvaceous lines, and an emphasis on beautiful, natural materials. But the Danes put their own, Nordic spin on things. Skønvirke tended to be a little more restrained than other countries' Art Nouveau movements. And Danish historical, literary and cultural themes were sometimes referenced in the works.
I bought this Victorian English shop bell in London some 20 years ago. It seemed like the perfect upgrade for my shop—authentic, timeless, atmospheric and practical. In other words, super-cool. But I already had a nice, serviceable antique shop bell on my front door; thus, I never got-around to installing the new acquisition. I kept it safely stored for some future need (which never arose). With an inexplicable sense of conflicted nostalgia, I now have decided to let the shop bell go—to list this handsome accessory on the LEO Design website. The bell is marked with an English patent registry date of 25 October 1878. The brass bell portion screws into the "header jamb" just above the door. The brass...
This afternoon, at 6:35 pm Eastern Time, NASA will launch the Orion Integrity rocket into space as part of the Artemis II moon mission. The crew of four will encircle the moon—nearly 57 years after American astronauts actually landed on the Moon's surface in 1969. This "flyby" mission will launch from the NASA Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Ten days later, the capsule (containing the crew) is scheduled to splash-down in the Pacific Ocean. There will be four astronauts aboard, including a Black man, a woman and a Canadian—a delightful surprise given the tenor of the times. These four individuals will set a new record for traveling farther from Earth than any other human has in history, over 250,000 miles as...
On this day in 1901, the United States Steel Corporation was founded. It was a merger of Carnegie Steel, Federal Steel and National Steel, orchestrated by J. P. Morgan of New York City. Charles M. Schwab, who had suggested the merger to J. P. Morgan, was named U.S. Steel's first president. The sale of Carnegie Steel made Andrew Carnegie one of the richest men throughout all of American history (when one accounts for inflation).
After this merger, U.S. Steel was responsible for two-thirds of the nation's considerable steel production. The company was gargantuan—and significantly fueled the explosion of America's Industrial Revolution. In 1943, during World War II, U.S. Steel's staffing ledger hit its highpoint with 340,000 employees.
Welcome, March, and your birth flower, the daffodil. Alas, we have no daffodils to share—no pictures, no carvings, no bas relief on pottery. Even my garden's daffodils are no more than half-inch green sprouts. But we do have a little yellow merchandise. So let's talk about this sunny color. Yellow is one of the earliest colors ever used by an artist. A horse, painted on a wall in the cave paintings of Lascaux (over 17,000 years ago) is colored in yellow ochre—an earthy yellow derived from clay laced with iron oxide. Other artists used the color successfully, too: Fragonard's Young Girl Reading, Klimt's The Kiss, and so many of Van Gogh's masterpieces feature yellow in bold and unforgettable ways. The...
When the English Pre-Raphaelite painter, William Holman Hunt (1827-1910), finished his painting, The Light of the World (1854), it became a sensation throughout the Christian world. Hunt was still in his twenties, yet, the picture became the most important Victorian English religious image of its day—and engraved renditions (like the 1870 version, shown above) were printed for hanging in homes, hospitals, schools and religious spaces. In the picture, Jesus is shown standing before a door, knocking. The door (the human heart) is locked-tight, overgrown with weeds and, in fact, it has no exterior knob. It can only be opened from the inside. Jesus holds a lantern which radiates the light of conscience; His halo radiates the light of salvation. Hunt...
We often contend that the next election could be the most important in history—and sometimes it is. 1860 was just such an election year. On this evening in 1860, Abraham Lincoln made his famous speech at the Cooper Union on Manhattan's Lower East Side (renamed "The East Village" a century later). This 90 minute speech clinched Lincoln's win in the Republican primary three months later (against New York's own William Seward). It also promoted Lincoln from a regional player to a national contender. Without the Cooper Union address, Lincoln may not have won the Republican primary (and, therefore, not won the presidency). Imagine the Nation's course—and the fates of so many people—had a different president taken office. Lincoln recognized that...
On this day in 1802, French Romantic poet, novelist, artist and activist, Victor Hugo, was born in Besançon, Eastern France (near the Swiss border, about 230 miles from Paris). He is considered amongst France's greatest writers—indeed, having a profound influence upon world literature. His masterwork, Les Misérables, is the enduring story of love, justice, grace, morality and redemption. On the day the novel was published in 1862, Hugo was away on vacation. He sent a one-symbol telegram to his publisher: "?". The publisher's one-symbol response: "!". The book was—and remains—a success. In addition to his many writings (including The Hunchback of Notre-Dame), Hugo was a committed abolitionist, republican, and anti-capital punishment activist. He deeply embraced the French ideal of Liberté,...
No need for panic, but it's ten months 'til Christmas. Already I'm beginning to acquire Holiday delights—as I uncover them—and I also have been selling vintage Christmas merchandise (as recently as this week). Vintage Christmas merchandise is highly collectable and I need to buy it when I find it. Shown above, a set of twelve glass Christmas ornaments from the Fifties or Sixtes. They are smallish—one inch in diameter—which makes them perfect sitting upon the delicate tips of Christmas Tree branches. They also would look great on a garland or wreath, perhaps blended with larger (or two larger sizes of) glass balls. Little glass balls like these are popular on traditional feather trees—the old, German style of artificial trees made...
On this day in 1582, Pope Gregory XIII issued a papal bull, Inter Gravissimas, in which he introduced the new Gregorian Calendar—a modification and improvement of the previous Julian Calendar (which had been in use for 1600 years). The new calendar was to go into effect in October and it would "spring forward" by ten days. At the time of the switch, people would go to bed on the night of 4 October 1582 and awaken the next morning, 15 October 1582. This leap forward would correct for centuries of "calendar drift" due to an inaccuracy in the Julian Calendar. The Julian Calendar, when it was introduced on 1 January 45 BC, was an improvement on the existing Roman Calendar...
Tradition holds that, on this day in 1455, Johannes Gutenberg completed his original copy of the "Gutenberg Bible," printed on Europe's first printing press using moveable, metal type. Gutenberg's technological advancement inaugurated Europe's "Age of Books"—and it ignited a rapid spread of learning and knowledge in the West. Gutenberg's invention is amongst the most important tech advancements in the world. It is responsible for an incalculable leap in human advancement. The Gutenberg Bible—even today—is considered a beautiful book, a work of art.
So much snow and ice! This frigid white stuff seems to have become the most prominent theme of my life over the past thirty days: Shoveling, Olympics, Heated Rivalry. It all began with the exceptionally large snowstorm which spanned the final weekend of January. I counted 18 inches of fallen snow— which I shoveled over five separate sessions. The problem wasn't the shoveling; I ran out of places to pile it! Then the bitter cold, which never rose above freezing for 17 straight days, ensured that the increasingly dirty mounds hung around for three long weeks. At long last, the weather rocketed into the mid-forties. I turned-on the backyard faucet and hand-washed my car. (It felt so good.) The warmish-week...
On this day in 1954—72 years ago—the Soviet Politburo (Communist USSR's highest ranking authority) transferred the territory of Crimea to Ukraine. The transfer was a formal recognition of the traditional cultural links between Crimea and the Ukrainian people. Furthermore, it was known that Nikita Khrushchev, the leader of the Communist Party, had a particular fondness for Ukraine, his favorite region. There also is a theory that the Crimea transfer helped to simplify the administration of a hydroelectric dam on the Dnieper River, which runs from Russia, through Ukraine and Crimea to the Black Sea. Ten years earlier, in 1944, the Soviet Union (on Joseph Stalin's orders) had performed a brutal ethnic cleansing of Tatars in Crimea, deporting nearly 200,000 people...
The Ancient Etruscans flourished in the 1,000 years before Christ. They were a highly-advanced people—technologically, artistically, economically and socially. They lived North of Rome, including in what would be considered Tuscany today. The Etruscans became very wealthy thanks to their mining and robust trading throughout the Mediterranean. All this money (and travel) allowed them to experience foreign cultures and purchase exotic artworks which, once imported, began to influence their own artistic culture. The Etruscans had ample access to raw metals and became exceptional metalsmith, especially in copper and bronze. They also were proficient in crafting decorated terracotta works—preferring this earthenware clay to marble. Though they were sitting atop an enviable marble deposit, the Etruscans did not prioritize stone working; It...
Oh, these times in which we live! So much is so depressing. Or distressing. Or heartbreaking. One such (relatively minor) torment is the seemingly-endless cold which has settled upon us in the Northeast. For too many days, temperatures have remained stubbornly below the freezing mark. On several days, we haven't exceeded the Teens. But, recently, I have begun to notice that the days have become noticeably longer—that is, the daylight has been disappearing ever later and later. More light is certainly a sign of hope—as it always has been. Shown above, a pair of Victorian English brass candlesticks, circa 1860's - 1880's. This was a time when no homes had electricity. And, while some homes may have had gas...
With forty days 'til Spring, it's time to share a little preview of what's to come. Shown here, a pair of Art Deco cast iron bookends from the Thirties. A young lass—donning a bonnet and "morning glory" dress—waters her garden, coaxing her blossoms forth. The cast iron was plated with a copper finish (which, by now, has been well-darkened in the nine decades since they were crafted). The majority of the bookends we find—especially those which might be for children—seem to feature boys and otherwise masculine themes: pirates, Indians, lions, sailing ships. I suppose it was the times (the Twenties and Thirties) and such "heroic" themes were considered suitable for the proper development of a young man's character. We find...
At more than 12,000 feet tall, Mount Fuji is probably the most iconic national symbol of Japan. It is also one of the world's most identifiable mountains. For centuries, it has inspired people—worshipers, climbers, artists and poets. Standing sixty miles from Tokyo, Mount Fuji is classified a "stratovolcano"—that is, a conical mountain built-up by the flow of lava, over years of eruptions. The volcano is remarkably symmetrical—and capped with snow for approximately five months a year. It is also an "active" volcano, having last erupted on 16 December 1707. Japan's frequent earthquakes are always concerning for residents living near Mount Fuji; scientists speculate that seismic activity could possibly trigger a new eruption. To the north of Mount Fuji lie the...
Welcome, February, and your regal birthstone, the Amethyst. In the past, amethysts were considered one of "The Cardinal Gemstones"—alongside diamonds, rubies, emeralds and sapphires. Prior to the Nineteenth Century, amethysts had only been discovered in Russia and Austria, thus, they were very rare (and very expensive). And their deep purple hue—the color of royalty in the West—made them a favorite with Medieval monarchs. Even to this day, Anglican and some Roman Catholic bishops wear an amethyst in their episcopal rings. According to Ancient Greek mythology, Dionysus—the god of wine—was in-pursuit of a beautiful virgin, Amethystos. Her prayers to remain chaste were answered: before Dionysus could catch her, she turned into a beautiful white stone. In his grief, Dionysus poured a...
We end the month on a chilly note. When I arose this morning, it was a brisk 11° below zero. Whew! I noted that Moscow was warmer this morning by 7 degrees. Luckily, today's forecast promises a rocketing-up to 15° Fahrenheit—a temperature which I've begun to consider balmy. Despite the cold, the winter can be beautiful (until it's not). The snow can be so pristine (until it's not). And the season can be fun (until it's not). Like every other season, this one, too, shall pass. So let's enjoy any of the beautiful parts. Shown above, a French Art Nouveau vase by Pierrefonds. Its classic, Chinese-inspired shape is decorated with a crystalline cornflower glazing which drips randomly down the cool,...
Blue and white is always a nice color combination, whether observed in a wintry landscape, a fluffy Summer sky or a West German Modernist bud vase. This dappled beauty was made in the Sixties or Seventies by Jopeko. The company was founded in 1848 as Krug und Abflussrohr Fabrik (Pitcher and Drainpipe Factory) in 1848 by Johan Peter Korzilius. Initially, they made ceramic industrial containers and sewer pipes in Ransbach-Baumbach, a recognized center of the Prussian (and later, German) ceramics industry (half-way between Frankfurt and Köln). After World War Two, they renamed their company after the founder (Jo-Pe-Ko) and turned their attention to the growing home decor segment of the ceramics industry. Heinz Martin came aboard as chief designer during...
As the icicles grow from my gutters—dripping dagger-like and dangerous—I cannot decide if I love them or hate them. They're pretty, catching the light, like earrings glittering at a ball or crystals sparkling on a chandelier. But they are long, sharp and adding weight to my gutters. Occasionally, I give them a swat with my snow shovel, shortening them and removing their sharp points. After the swing, I always feel like I've just destroyed something beautiful. This French Art Nouveau vase, shown above, was made by Pierrefonds at the Turn-of-the-Twentieth-Century. It features multiple blue glazes, dripping languorously over the high shoulder and down the sides of this classic vase. It's a touch of wintry beauty—clean, cool, crisp—and so much like...
The snow has fallen; now comes the bitter cold! We are projected to endure temperatures in "the negative teens" over the coming weekend (and into the following week). Luckily, I've done a good job of removing the snow while it's still soft and powdery. I do not want it "taking root" for the next six weeks. Rather than fight the cold (how does one do that?), let's celebrate the chill with a selection of antique ceramics which capture the frosty beauty of the Winter season. Shown above, an American Arts & Crafts two-handled vase made by Fulper in Flemington, New Jersey (c. 1910). The organic, dripping, crystalline glazing is highly-reminiscent of the French Art Nouveau Pierrefonds pottery. At first glance,...
The wintry blanket of snow does not stay pristine forever. In fact, it soon changes form while the snow mixes with, blends into and is absorbed back into the Earth. Shown here, a West German Modernist vase by Ceramano (located in Ransbach-Baumbach, Germany, about 55 miles Northwest of Frankfurt). The workshop was founded in 1954 by Jakob Schwaderlapp, the same man who previously had established Jasba (in 1926). Jasba had always been a mass production-oriented operation, utilizing less artisan handwork (per piece) and generating a high volume of affordable output. After World War II, with the boom of post war Modernism, Schwaderlapp launched a new workshop in order to bridge the gap between expensive, high-touch studio production and the less...
We saw this dappled gray and white glaze, shown above, a couple of days ago on a different, hand-thrown piece. Here it is used, to great effect, on a lotus-form vase by Pilkington Royal Lancastrian. The piece straddles the Arts & Crafts and the Art Deco Movements—and was made in the Twenties or Thirties. Instead of being hand-thrown, on a potter's wheel, this one was cast in a mould. Note the bas relief "lotus petals" embossed upon the sides of the vase (a silhouette inspired by classic Chinese ceramics).
Though the vase, shown above, features a very simple and classic form (sometimes called an "oil jar"), its glazing offers a sophisticated and unexpected twist: a delicate curdling upon the high shoulder of the vase. It is a look reminiscent of snow atop an icy surface—perhaps snow atop lake-top ice? Fallen, melted, refrozen and crackling? It is the smallest embellishment which adds just the right touch to an otherwise simple form and color. It was made by Scheurich, in West Germany, in the Seventies or Eighties.
Snow always looks wonderful against a bright blue sky. Alas, however, snowy days might also be dour. This English Arts & Crafts vase is finished with a wonderfully sophisticated, dappled white and grey glazing—reminiscent of a cloudy winter day. It was hand-thrown by Edward Thomas Radford for Pilkington Royal Lancastrian in the 1920's or 1930's. One can still see (and feel) the potter's fingermarks which encircle the vase—permanently impressed within the soft clay as it spun-about on a potter's wheel. Edward Thomas Radford began his career training at Wedgwood in Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent. In 1903, he was hired to throw pottery (by hand, on a wheel) for Pilkington Royal Lancastrian in Manchester. He was the chief thrower at Pilkington until he...
It's here! The snow is forecast to begin sometime during the night. While I have not seen salt being scattered on the roadways, I have seen electronic signs on the highway banning commercial vehicles after midnight. They say it's going to be a big one. We can do nothing better than go with the flow. In the end, you can't beat Mother Nature. Speaking of snow, let's share some of our favorite "snowy" vases—vessels crafted and finished with wintry, snow-like glazes. It will be our small celebration of the snow. Shown above, a Mid-Century West German Modernist "genie bottle" vase by Carstens-Tönnieshof. The rare white and grey pumice-like glaze has been called a "glacial glaze"—and it does look like freshly...
The weather will soon be frightful—and the slip'ry roads despiteful. So rather than have a scare—hibernate (through it all) like a bear. With the big snow coming, people around here are planning their weekend hibernations. Larders are being filled, salt is being stashed, and tall boots are being pulled out of storage. Perhaps we are imitating those classic hibernators, the bears. In the Summer and Autumn, bears gorge themselves in preparation for the annual winter hibernation (more accurately called a "torpor"—a state which alternates between deep sleep and a groggy haze, in which they may move around within their dens). Bears need to fatten-up to endure a long period during which they may not eat at all. The length...
The weather reports sound daunting: snow, ice, snow, cold and more snow. This weekend, it looks like Mother Nature will be reminding us who's in-charge. As for the grocery stores, they're mayhem—not to mention, stripped bare. The best thing that we can do is to plan ahead, stock-up, batten-down, and prepare for a nice long weekend of Netflix and cassoulet. (That and a lot of shoveling.)
Shown above, a Modernist French crystal paperweight, under which is embossed a sparkling, crystalline snowflake. It's a handsome expression of the season—cold, crisp and clean. It's also a year 'round reminder of the snow (to all those who love their winter sports).
On this day in 1401, Europe's first Central Bank, the Taula de canvi, began operations in Barcelona, Spain. The previous year, the city's Consell de Cent (roughly, "Council of 100") chartered such an institution in order to control and stabilize the city's fiscal policy and economy. While the Taula de canvi was much reduced in influence over the centuries, it remained in-operation until 1853 (at which point its remaining operations were absorbed into the newer Bank of Spain).
While a "Commercial Bank" serves the general public (holding customer's deposits and making loans for a profit), a "Central Bank" is usually a government institution which issues currency, regulates banking, and aims to create economic stability by managing monetary policy.
Amongst the most respected moral voices in the modern world was that of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Today we celebrate the federal holiday honoring this American hero. Like so many historic icons of moral leadership, Dr. King's "message" has been boiled-down over time—pruned and streamlined—which deprives us of the complexity (and completeness) of his teachings. Most Americans are familiar with King's uplifting orations against racism and bigotry. But King also spoke frankly about economic justice and made searing indictments against the Vietnam War. That he viewed earthly justice through the lens of divine justice makes his message even more compelling to some people. Today, we have other American religious leaders—specifically Pope Leo and certain brave cardinals—who are weaving-together a...
In the late Nineteenth and Early Twentieth centuries, as the Nordic countries yearned to define themselves—their cultures, their values and their borders—Mother Nature was always foundational to the Scandinavian psyche. Nature had long been considered a healing force in Nordic cultures. At the Turn-of-the-Twentieth-Century, Vitalism became a fashionable philosophy: the belief that Nature's "life force" animates and connects all living creatures. Vitalism proposed that Nature had the power to cure physical ailments, restore healthful vigor, and to (even) reform society's morality. Such important social currents became manifest in the artworks of the period. Vitalism viewed nudity (especially outdoors) as natural and healthful—a return to mankind's innocence and purity (perhaps a return to Eden). Furthermore, Vitalism was a reaction against (what...
In the Nineteenth Century, the Nordic countries—Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Finland—sought to promote their individual cultural identities through art, craft and design. Finland, for one, remained under the thumb of Russia (until 1917). Norway was bound-to (and dominated by) Sweden (until 1905). During this time, artists and designers in each country mined their histories, arts and folklore to revive aesthetic elements which would help foster a unique national identity. In Norway, the Vikings have always been a compelling symbol of that country's ancient culture. The Celtic aesthetics of the Vikings looked great, was unquestionably Norwegian, and lent itself to the precepts of the broader Arts & Crafts movement which was so popular throughout Europe. Locally, it was called Jugendstil or...
When I think of Scandinavian paintings, the first thing which comes to mind is landscapes. I am so enchanted by the Nordic painters' depictions of Northern light that landscapes, naturally, appear top-of-mind. Furthermore, the Nordic embrace of nature—specifically the healthful, revitalizing outdoors—made landscape painting a particularly important element of Scandinavia's painterly oeuvre. But there are wonderful Nordic portraits, too. I remember visiting the (old) Norwegian National Museum of Art in Oslo. There was a gallery devoted to the works of Edvard Munch. While the crowd jostled in front of Munch's iconic painting, The Scream, I enjoyed free, unrestricted inspection of the dozen-or-more full-length portraits which lined 95% of the room's walls. And Munch's portraits were good (a revelation to me,...
The Art Nouveau Movement was manifested in most European countries, starting in the last decades of the Nineteenth Century until (approximately) World War One. Although Art Nouveau had differing personalities in differing locales, there were several through lines which informed the movement wherever it was practiced. Chief amongst these principles was a return to honorable handcraft—and the revival of specific regional themes (which could be ancient, historic, literary, or artistic). This made the Art Nouveau Movement especially adaptable to nationalist movements—aesthetic fashions which reinforced the culture and national identity of independent countries (or those who wished to be).
The bulk of David and Susan Werner's Scandinavian artworks (and artful items)—which were beautifully displayed at the Frick Museum Pittsburgh—were made in the Late Nineteenth and Early Twentieth Centuries. This comports with a period of vigorous national self-expression on the part of Nordic countries. They were eager to promote their identities as patriotic, independent countries—or countries which wanted to be independent from each other and from the dominant Russian Empire. Nordic designers and artists looked-backwards to their country's ancient folk designs, aesthetic themes and tales from local folklore. This practice of "looking back" also occurred within various worldwide Art Nouveau movements, which overlapped with the period in question (and which we'll look at tomorrow). Today, we'll share some items with...
When I find myself marveling at an astounding museum exhibit, I'm usually standing in New York City—if not farther afield. But, just this week, I found myself mesmerized by wonderful art right here in the Steel City. The Frick Museum, here in Pittsburgh, presented a compelling exhibit called The Scandinavian Home: Landscape and Lore. It comprised a collection of over 100 pieces—paintings, pottery, textiles, furniture and other decorative objets—from David and Susan Werner's collection of Scandinavian works of art and craft. Of course, the art was beautiful. Just as important: the Frick Museum displayed the works in the way art always should be displayed—paintings, hanging over period furniture, resting upon period rugs, near collections of period ceramics. Most artists don't...
Let's end our week of "bearing-up" with this whimsical piece by Knud Kyhn for Royal Copenhagen. Most of the sculptor's work was highly-naturalistic, shunning cute displays of anthropomorphism. This Danish Modernist piece seems to be one of Kyhn's few pieces which incorporates a bit of fanciful playfulness. A mother bear, while rolling on her back, lifts her cub aloft. It captures a tender moment of bonding between mother and offspring. And it captures the ursine energy of the pair (not to mention the cub's frantic wriggling). The piece, heavy and large, is dated 1957 and is finished in the classic Sung Glaze by Patrick Nordström. It would make a wonderful gift for a new mother. Or a cherished gift from...
Here's something a little different—a cuddly teddy bear, relaxing Après-ski. His knitted snowflake sweater will look great in the lodge—and keep him toasty-warm next to the fire. He is covered in faux mohair fur. His articulated joints make him posable and the little felt pads on his hands and feet add a nice, classic touch.
It's only Day Ten of the New Year. And the wild developments just keep-a-coming! As we "bear" with this New World Disorder, we are sharing some of our favorite bears, all currently in-stock at LEO Design. Knud Kyhn's sculptures of wild animals are highly naturalistic. He doesn't sculpted "cutesy creatures" or dabble in much anthropomorphism. His animal sculptures display a realistic, simple and confident Modernism. The sculpted grouping, shown above, depicts a tense scene—far more dramatic than most of Knud Kyhn's renderings. An agitated bear—alarmed by a snake, coiled and ready-to-strike—exerts a Mannerist twist, straining to face the threat. With simple, spontaneous and (somewhat) Impressionistic sculpting, Knud Kyhn was able to imbue this work with a great deal of action...
Here is another bear sculpted by our Danish friend, Knud Kyhn (1880-1969). This large, heavy and compactly-modeled form catches the startled expression and ursine energy of a lumbering bear. Is she just sitting down? Or trying to get-up?
Knud Kyhn often glazed his pieces in Royal Copenhagen's "Sung Glaze." This dripping blend of colors—browns, creams, blues, greens and oranges—has an earthy, organic and highly-variable appearance. The glaze was developed by Patrick Nordström, a brilliant ceramicist, who distinguished himself through his mastery of complex glazes. His Sung Glaze was inspired by earlier Chinese glazes—which had been intriguing the Western world for centuries.
Bronze is such a nice metal. There was even a period called the Bronze Age. While bronze was initially developed for making tools and weapons, it was also a wonderful medium in the hands of artists. Sculpture, furniture, lighting and other home furnishings have been (and still are are) made of bronze.
Shown above, a chubby little "shelf-sitter" teddy bear. He is impressionistically modeled, cast in bronze and finished with a dark patina. His little legs were designed to allow him to sit on the edge of a shelf—legs-a-dangling. Place him within view and he'll keep you company at your desk or reading chair.
So much going on! And the year's only a week old! As for me, I'm bearing with it as best I'm able. So let's bear it together! This week we present a selection of handsome bears, all currently in-stock at LEO Design. Knud Khyn was a Danish artist born in 1880. He worked in various media, although, the lion's share of his work was creating stoneware sculpture—and most of his career was working for Royal Copenhagen (during the Art Nouveau, Art Deco and Danish Modernist periods). As one of Royal Copenhagen's premier artists, Khyn designed numerous sculptures in his signature style—mostly wild animals and the occasional mythical creature. Knud Kyhn would sculpt the original models, then supervise their subsequent moulding...
There's a vicious demon prowling the world—devouring Democracies where they still remain. Even some countries which once proudly boasted of their Freedom—countries whose soldiers fought and died to preserve Democracy—are threatened by malignant actors. Alas, too many citizens (and their political party) are content to stand-by silently, watching Democracy be dismantled and Authoritarianism embraced. This assault is happening in all "corners" of the World.
Today is J6—a day when Democracy-loving patriots must recall just how close the country came to Authoritarian domination. It's a lesson worth contemplating. While that one-day endeavor did not (immediately) succeed, its goal is slowly and incrementally being realized—one Democratic building block after another.
Twelfth Night, 5 January, refers to The Twelfth Day of Christmas—which is the evening before Epiphany (6 January). Traditionally, it was a time of festive merriment—with just a little bit of sanctioned mayhem. Some believe that William Shakespeare's play (Twelfth Night, or What You Will) was requested by Queen Elizabeth I for that evening's entertainment (in 1601 or 1602).
The heavy, cast iron bookends, shown above, were made over 300 years later (in the 1920's). A golden bust of William Shakespeare floats against a textured, bronze-colored backdrop. It is handsome, stately, and terrifically practical. They are the perfect gift for any educated book-lover—aesthetic and useful.
Our beloved shop dog, Benji, turns thirteen today! Sure, he now wears considerably more age spots. And he snores and coughs a bit more these days. But we still see glimpses of his puppy within. He runs, plays—and eats—with as much gusto as he ever has. Benji spent many a workday, for four years, sleeping in his door-less crate behind the cash wrap at 543 Hudson Street. He'd pop-out, now and then, to greet a friendly customer or her dog. Sometimes the shop bell on the door would (inexplicably) catch his attention. But, by and large, Benji was the single LEO Design staffer granted a permanent rest break. He could lead-the-way to the store and he knew the standard, twice-daily...
Though the days are getting noticeably longer, who can't use even more light? This pair of Mid-Nineteenth Century Victorian English brass candlesticks is a handsome and practical way to bring more light to your table. The square bases are an uncommon design. And the faceted "knuckle" along the shaft makes them easier to carry securely.
January is here and she brings her handsome birthstone, the Garnet. Garnets are not the most exclusive of stones. In fact, some consider them "a poor man's ruby." But I have always loved the dark, red color of the stone. And I like the way that garnets are often assembled—en masse—within gold Bohemian settings (a style called "pavé" in which many small stones are cobbled together, like paving). Garnets are actually a range of stones with differing compositions. They are most often recognized as deep red, though many other colors can be found. Blue garnets are the rarest variety. Garnets are mined in India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Russia, Africa and Madagascar, and within Canada and the United States. Some "species"...
Each New Year offers the promise of change: improvement, recalibration, redemption. Most years, my resolutions have been centered on selfish personal development (usually diet and exercise). Maybe this year.
In these past few years, each New Year has begun to provide me also a glimmer of optimism: perhaps this will be the year where our country (and the world) turns a corner, does right, embraces goodness, and seeks redemption. Maybe this year?
May you have a New Year of health and happiness. May good things happen to you and to those you care about.
And thank you for your support of LEO Design over the past year.
Every year, just before New Year's Eve, we get a small rush of customers buying champagne and cocktail glasses for their last night gatherings. It seems they are resolved to up-their-game before the clock strikes twelve. Above, see a set of eight (plus one) handsome crystal champagne or cocktail stems. Made in the years just after World War Two, they have a corseted, "tulip form" bowl—which provides visual tension to the design and slows the release of the champagne's bubbles. The softly-curving lip makes the glass a pleasure (and a little easier) to drink from. And the faceted stem gives the glass a "crisp handfeel," making it easier to control the vessel. A stem, of course, prevents the transfer of...
At LEO Design, we always have carried a mixture of Handsome Gifts—some of them antique, some of them newly-crafted. But, because of our large cache of antiques, we have always been careful about not carrying contemporary items which might be confused as an antique. While we do not want people to feel misled, we also are proud to lean-into the excellent craftsmanship of contemporary artisans (when we find them). Thus, very few of our contemporary pieces were outright reproductions, posing as antique items. One rare exception is a line of (wonderful) frames—gold-plated, enameled and hand-set with Swarovski crystals. Consider the "Imperial Gold-Plated" frame shown above. I have loved this line of frames from the moment I first found them. They are...
It's enticing to believe that distinct aesthetic schools start (and stop) on a particular day in history. For example, that the Renaissance ended one morning and Mannerism began that same afternoon. But artistic movements—and the human artists who create them—don't stick to hard-and-fast timetables. Elements of one movement (say, the Aesthetic Movement) still may be visible in the next school of design (say, the Arts & Crafts). Humans—including artists (especially artists)—are often driven by their own creative wills and temporal needs, not the precisely regimented timetables of academicians who will follow in later years (or centuries). It is also true that one nice antiquity may have the "visual genetics" of two or more aesthetic schools (to successful or unsuccessful effect)....
I have always loved the Greek Key decorative motif. On pottery, on glassware, in architecture or on photo frames (like the one shown above), a little band of Greek Fretwork can never be too much. Often, it's just enough. A Greek Key is a continuous decorative line which "meanders" along an unbroken and repetitive pathway of right angles—always moving forward, taking frequent 90° turns (in both directions) and sometimes undergoing temporary switchbacks. Though a Greek Key almost always progresses in a directional line, the right angles create an interlocking, maze-like appearance. The unbroken line can be interpreted to represent unity, infinity or continuous flow. Sometimes two (or more) Greek Key lines are "interwoven" to create a complex fretwork—highly elaborate but...
Simply put, brass is an alloy (a metal mixture) of two-thirds copper and one-third zinc (although these proportions can vary, and other metals introduced, to create a variety of desired effects). By changing the composite metals (and their proportions), brass can be manipulated to be better suited to heat, salty conditions, to affect the coloration, or to make a better-sounding musical instrument. Objects made of brass-like alloys have been found since ancient times, however, the proper scientific understanding of brass (and brass-making) really coalesced during the Renaissance. Before that, the brass mixtures were more crudely formulated. What became understood during the Renaissance was the importance of trapping zinc vapors by covering the crucible (the large pot in which metals were...
Boxing Day—the day after Christmas—is a national holiday in England and in many of the British Commonwealth Countries around the world (that is, those countries which were once British territories). Boxing Day was the standard day off granted to the household servants of British aristocrats (as staff were expected to attend their employers on Christmas Day). On 26 December, servants would receive "boxes" from their masters containing food, money and other gifts. It was also a day when the poor might receive alms—monies collected by the Church in alms boxes. (Recall the carol about "Good King Wenceslas" who brought charity [alms] to the needy, through deep snow, on the Feast of Saint Stephen—26 December.)
Wishing all a very Merry Christmas
—and a New Year of Peace and Contentment.
Many thanks for your support throughout the year.
Fondly, Your Friends at LEO Design.
Christmas Eve was always a special night in the LEO Design shop in Greenwich Village. We always stayed open until 10:00 pm. Most of the day's Holiday Hustle already had died down by 7:00 pm.. And the customers who did come in—usually after dinner—were in a good mood and, often, feeling little pain. They were relaxed because they were staying in the city for Christmas. Nowhere to go but home! These customers might find a gift for someone they were seeing at New Years or, better yet, something nice for themselves. We used the quiet hours to fill-in merchandise, re-organize as needed, and change the window before Christmas Day. This always meant installing our pair of Italian polychromed terracotta angel...
After a week in the single digits, and three days of snowfall, it looks like Christmas Day will be 55° and rainy. A White Christmas does not seem to be in the cards. Oh well, there'll be plenty more time for snow. Plus, we have these handsome French crystal "snowflake" paperweights—a year 'round reminder of the powdery white stuff.
These paperweights were cast in France in the 1980's. A dimensional lacy snowflake glistens softly under the paperweight's dome of crystal.
We live in a modern world of alarms, alerts and other audible signals—many of them emanating from the electronic device waiting in our back pocket. For good or bad, we are now conditioned to respond immediately to any such interruptions—as the signal pierces not only our ears, but our consciousness. Such "call systems" are not new. In the old days, bells and whistles were used to call people to a purpose. Mistresses would ring a little bell when she needed help dressing or wanted the tea brought in. Factory owners would blow a horn when a work shift was about to begin. And teachers would ring a large triangle when it was time for class to assemble. In these old-time...
Despite several 7° days—and many inches of snow—Winter only begins today. It is the Winter Solstice, the day when the Northern Hemisphere is most tipped-away from the Sun in the Earth's annual "axis-wobble," toward and away from the Sun. That makes today the "shortest day of the year," the day with the least amount of daylight. And, starting tomorrow, the daylight will begin to shine longer and longer. But the coldest months of the year are yet to come. The mercury thermometer, shown above, was made at the Turn-of-the-Century as an "advertising piece"—a giveaway to customers of the Gall & Lembke Optical Company, 21 Union Square, New York City. The thermometer is mounted to an engraved brass plate, attached to...
I dislike smoking. The idea of intentionally inhaling smoke into one's lungs is mystifying to me. Despite this, I frequently like the smokers themselves—and I have always appreciated the elegant accoutrements of smoking: ashtrays, tobacco jars, smoking stands, cigarette holders. The Spanish cigar cutter, shown above, is an example of the aesthetically-pleasing tools a smoker may require. The cutter has an industrial sensibility; in fact, the company which made it once manufactured office accessories. Today, such a cigar cutter would look good in any office or smoking den—whether that space has an industrial, traditional or Turn-of-the-Century sensibility.
Before the invention of the modern pen, an inkwell remained a necessity if one wished to write with ink (vs. writing in pencil). Such an inkwell could be as ordinary as a little stoneware pot. Or it could be as luxurious as a golden-enameled Fabergé fixture standing upon a Tsar's desk. Quills and pen nibs had to be dipped frequently into the ink while writing. In 1809, the first patent was issued for a "fountain pen"—that is, a pen which held a supply of ink within its body, thus eliminating the need for constant dipping. (Although variations of this design had been attempted and used prior to 1809.) Even fountain pens needed to be refilled now and then (sometimes at...
Organization! Each New Year begins with the same resolution: "This year I really need to arrange this . . . or set-up that . . . or create . . . whatever." Perhaps, in its very small way, this Turn-of-the-Century desk accessory will move you just a little closer to this goal. It was made to promote "K-Diamond" (a company which we have yet to identify). Perhaps it was given-away to customers or left-behind by a salesman after a sales call. The cast iron "feet" curl upward—like a pair of boots—providing two convenient spaces to store a pen or pencil. The central spring accepts note cards or letters. Because the spring slides back and forth, the holder will accept envelopes...
When is a tray not a tray? Perhaps when it's too beautiful to cover-up and use—like this Belgian Art Nouveau bronze tray. It was made by G. Huygens, a Belgian sculptor of Dutch ancestry. What this small tray does—superbly—is to provide a sculpted decorative accent upon a table top or low shelf. It would be useful for presenting business cards, offering small (wrapped) candies, or as a caddy for wallets and mobile phones (though I would avoid scratching it with coins or keys).
While the works of G. Huygens can be found at the occasional auction, there is a surprising lack of biography to be found about him.
You mean Winter hasn't even started, yet? No, alas, Winter still is five days away! Yet the wintry blast is upon us. I've shoveled (twice) and already pulled-out my fake-fur hat ("hat hair" be damned—I usually wait much longer to submit). It is cold and icy and Pittsburghers already are cancelling their plans—whether joyous or obligatory. I don't remember "The Snow" posing such a threat to New Yorkers. In New York, one cannot easily avoid the meteorological elements (or other New Yorkers). One must leave the apartment, alight the sidewalk, and walk (outdoors) to the store, to work or to the subway. Snow (or "pending snow") never seemed to affect New York denizens—with the exception of generating a surge in Chinese...
With only ten days left before Christmas—it's time to fly!
Each of these adorable, red owl ornaments conveys a different attitude, character and personality. They were carved of gourds in Peru. Each (differently-shaped) gourd is hand-incised, hand-painted, and darkened (in spots) with a flame. The process allows the artists to imbue each ornament with its own, unique personality.
Hanukkah begins tonight at sundown. Wishing all a Happy Festival of Lights! Every great now and then, depending on the idiosyncratic inter-cyclings of the Hebrew (lunar) and Gregorian (solar) calendars, there may be two Hanukkahs in one calendar year. 2025 is such a rarity! Last year's Hanukkah ended on 2 January (2025) and this year's begins on 14 December (2025)—two Hanukkahs in 2025! Even more strange (and more rare) is a year in which where there will be no Hanukkah at all. 3031 (more than a thousand years away) will be such a year with no Festival of Lights (although there will be two Hanukkahs in 3032). This has never happened before—at least not in the 16 centuries since...
Trays are amongst the simplest—yet most useful—of household accoutrements. Compared to carrying-by-hand, trays allow one to transport three (or four) times the amount of volume of that which must be carried. Trays can be fancy and decorative or they can be handsomely utilitarian (like the Edwardian English Oak Butler's Tray, shown above). I use trays when setting the table. In the kitchen, I pile-on all the plates, glasses, napkins, silverware, and serving pieces (pitchers and utensils). Using the tray allows me to make one trip to the dining room. I use trays when serving my guests (first drinks, then supper, then dessert). And the tray is useful for clearing-away the table at the end of the night. When I head...
Let's end our short parade of letterknives with this Rococo Revival specimen—made in England in the Teens or Twenties. Heavy and handsome, it would add dramatic punctuation to any nice desk. The Rococo Movement (of the 1700's) immediately followed the Baroque Period (of the 1600's and early 1700's). While both movements were expensive, opulent and theatrical, they pursued different purposes and each employed a different aesthetic vocabulary. The Baroque (which followed the Renaissance and Mannerist Eras) was a bold and masculine assertion of grandeur, drama, seriousness and dominance—coincident with the Counter-Reformation efforts of the Church which sought to define itself in contrast to the austerity of the breakaway Protestant denominations. The Baroque was noted for its massive scale, symmetry and...
The Japanese letterknife, shown above, is more like a handsome piece of jewelry than a utilitarian desk accessory. The chromed blade extends from a silver handle—ambitiously hand-engraved with scrolling botanicals. Furthermore, a retractable penknife folds into the handle—ever-ready to sharpen one's quill pen. This handsome letterknife was made in the 1950's.
Knights in armor continue to stir emotion, even in the modern mind. Dashing, brave and driven by honor, knights gallant hold an honored place in Medieval and Romantic literature. Perhaps it is the chivalry. Possibly it is The Quest. But let's not discount the fancy dress!
This Belgian Art Nouveau brass letterknife takes us back to the Days of the Chevalier. He stands posed atop the letterknife's hilt, mace in-hand at at-the-ready. He might bring a touch of Gothic interest (and usefulness) to the well-appointed desk.
This elegant letterknife boasts handsome, scrolling botanical engraving. It is silver-plated and comes with an elegantly decorated sheath. This letterknife is simultaneously understated and theatrical—reminiscent of a stage dagger. It was made between the world wars.
Letterknives have always been part of the mix of LEO Design's "Handsome Gifts." They are attractive, useful, and can be found in every imaginable aesthetic style. Letterknives often are a featured player on a well-dressed desk—perhaps like a piece of jewelry accenting a beautiful outfit.
Shown above, a handsome, vintage chromed letterknife with a heavy, turned, three-stone handle—perhaps alabaster. The shape is masculine and classic and it was made in the Eighties.
Eighty-four years ago today, Japan attacked Pearl Harbor, which was the strategic American naval base in Honolulu, Hawaii. It was a bold and reckless move which awoke the sleeping U.S. giant—which previously had been trying its best to ignore the March of Fascism in Europe. This unexpected, early-morning onslaught ignited a succession of actions which (for good or bad) would define America (and the World) for decades to come. Within 24 hours of the bombing, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt appeared before a joint session of Congress, asking them to declare war on Japan. Legally, Congress (not the President) has the sole discretion of authorizing war—a constitutional fact which FDR observed. FDR began his address—broadcast nationwide—with, "Yesterday, December 7th, 1941—a day...
