Tuesday Treat ~ Dana's Guest Post

Having toured her beautiful home via a previous guest post, I craved for more...So, I brought Dana back to write about her design choices and accessories which make her home, so inviting and homey!!..Now ...over to Dana, of mid2mod.com, and mid2mod, the blog...

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When Sudha asked me to write a guest post, I couldn't decide at first what to write about. My blog is focuses on mid-century modern decor and history, and I know her beautiful blog is somewhat more eclectic. Then I had an idea! I'd take this opportunity to showcase the decorator accessories and art in my house that I love most, even though some of it isn't mid-century modern at all.

Some of it I love for sentimental reasons, like this large vase that my great-grandmother received as a wedding gift over 100 years ago. The piece is quite large, and the detail in the swans' feathers is stunning.

My Mama Dell's vase, circa 1900

My daughter Jennifer is quite an accomplished photographer, although with a couple of sons under two years of age, she doesn't have much time for photography anymore. She did a series of images of doors which were magical, because they left you wondering what was happening...or had happened over the years...behind them. Here are two examples, taken in New Orleans, a city she and I visited often when she was a teenager.

Jenn's photo No. 723

Jenn's photo No. 622

I also really like a few pieces of art that I did myself. One is a grouping of six 6" x 6" canvases on which I layered colors of acrylic paint. I scraped or rubbed off sections before the paint dried. Then I fired silver medallions out of precious metal clay, which I affixed to the pictures and have allowed to oxidize over time. Another grouping of three was inspired by a cover of Elle Decor.

Acrylic with PMC medallions

Inspired by Elle Decor

I also love art by Brian Andreas. I have a pair of his prints in my entry hall, and I have one of his wood sculptures in a bedroom. Andreas's work always speaks to my heart, whether it makes me laugh or cry. The print is particularly meaningful to me, because it is the story of the wonderful life I shared with my late partner Carl, who died in 2006.

I don't think of it as working for world peace, he said. I think of it as trying to get along in a really big strange family.

There was a boy with skin as dark as the earth & a girl with eyes as blue as the deep & they loved each other so well that people could not tell them apart for in their hearts there was no difference between them.

And speaking of Carl...I love this trio of Danish candlesticks and the set of rustic, hand-dipped candles that he bought for me on one of the wonderful trips we made together.

The sleekness of Danish design paired with handcrafted candles

And finally, one of my favorite pieces of pewter is a vintage Castor Cooper vase with a horse motif. It was an eBay find a few years ago.

Castor Cooper pewter vase

Thank you, Sudha, for allowing me to share some of the personal items I treasure most. I hope they do your delightful blog justice.

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A guest post so well done! All I had to do was copy paste her content and hit publish :)..Thank you Dana, for the wonderful write up and lovely images. And thank you for sharing your thoughts and pictures of your treasured items 


I am a Danish and Scandinavian Modern crazy design enthusiast who is influenced by her Indian roots!! Dana and other wonderful bloggers are a serious source of inspiration for my design know-whats!!

Picture source/copyright: Dana

Amazing Antiques ~ Canterbury Mahogany Magazine Rack

Bought this Genuine Mahogany Canterbury Magazine rack....It was after I got it home, I realized how expensive even its reproductions were in popular big box stores..

drawer - dovetail construction with original brass knobs

brass wheels

Time Period: Circa 1910

Style: English, Victorian

Wood: Mahogany

Images my own

Amazing Antiques ~ Chrome and Glass furniture

Yes, you heard me right, Chrome and glass antique furniture. I always thought that Chrome and Steel with glass were a thing of the 80's. Thats until I came across some iconic designs by the talented Irish furniture designer and architect, Eileen Gray. 

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Furniture: Side table

Period - 1920's

Designer  - Eileen Gray (1878-1976)

This particular table was coded - E1027 and was designed circa 1924. E-1027 was both compact and open. I think it was very futuristic, coming from someone born in the Art Nouveau period. Eileen is said to have been persuaded to explore her interest in architecture by a fellow Romanian Architect, Jean Badovici. The codename is derived from: E for Eileen, 10 for Jean (J is the tenth letter of the alphabet), 2 for Badovici and 7 for Gray.

Another iconic chair from Eileen Gray's kitty: Bibendum chair

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Bibendum chair is considered one of the finest and most recognizable furniture pieces of the 20th century. This chair was called the "triumph of modern living" in the 1930's. Bibendum chair fused the tubular steel design of the Bauhaus Modernists with the comfort of padded upholstery. I feel that her need to move away from her previous traditional designs resulted in this chair and many more later on.


As such Eileen was also known for her love for lacquer, and her very works are an ode to Art Deco period. must have been inspired by the tubular chrome platted furniture designed by other modernists and remarkable designers of her times - Mart Stam and Marcel Breuer. (remember my post on bentwood furniture!!)

Who would have imagined that one could envision such exquisite design in times when Art Nuveauo was in vogue..hmm... this reminds me of The Fountain Head..

Now, compare the Bibendum with the Chairs which were popular in the 20's (worldwide I guess :)...and now imagine the break-from-the regular design trend by Eileen, Mart, Marcel etc... :)..

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 or this

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More on Bibendum

She designed the chair as part of re-design assignment for Madame Mathieu Lévy's apartment on rue de Lota in Paris. Levy was a successful boutique owner who sold stylish hats and hoped to have a home with new and original, with innovative designs. The project took four painstaking years, from 1917 to 1921, and Eileen Gray created the Bibendum chair along with the interior walls, furnishings, rugs and lamps. 

Ever since I found out about Eileen and her designs, I was hoping to do this post...but wanted my write up be an honest attempt at showcasing the creativity of an icon who passed away before I was born :). What surprises me most is that these designs are so inspiring and in use even today. While on this blogging journey, I hope I am able to convey my awe for design and creativity and document what I learn.  And before I leave, here is a peek into Eileen Gray's apartment

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Want to know more about her work...hop over to > Eileen-gray Designs. and hey...not before you leave your comment here :P

Amazing Antiques ~ Hutschenreuther Gold Overlay Cream & Sugar Set

Found this creamer and sugar set listed on the local Criagslist for a reasonable price...I loved the make and researched a bit on its histrory.

Seller listed it as Hutschenreuther creamer and sugar bowl set

A brief history:

Hutschenreuther China Karl Mangus Hutschenreuther set up Germany's first private porcelain decorating factories in Hohenberg, Bavaria in 1814. Hutchenreuther wanted to produce his own patterns, and after an eight year struggle with the Bavarian Government (which was not interested in creating competition for the state-owned factory), Hutschenreuther received the necessary permission to begin production in 1822. Upon his death in 1845, his son Lorenz founded his own Hutschenreuther Porcelain company in Selb. Son Christian and widow Johanna also worked to carry on the company tradition.


In the early part of the 20th century, Hutschenreuther grew quickly by absorbing factories at Altrohlau (1909), Arzburg (1918) and Tirschenreuth (1927). The branches of the company were united in 1969. Hutschenreuther was a trend-setter and enabled Germany to gain an excellent reputation in the European china industry. The Hutschenreuther "Mark of the Lion" is a symbol of excellence that continues to this day. source


A few more pictures of the set

lovely details...

Perfectly glazed!

It is in amazing condition considering its age...I would have bough it..but for the lack of space :)

Lovely and very classy isn't it!!

Pctures source: CL seller; the listing

Friday finds ~ Brass Love - with updates :)

Found this beautiful brass and silver punch bowl (or may be dessert/ kheer serving set :)) 

via Etsy and blog

Exotic isn't it!!!!! The seller described it as a mid century (1950-60) set from India. I am researching on the period and style (looks more like a middle east inspired set to me)..what say?

An update:

Thanks everyone for the love! With so many co-enthusiasts pouring in their comments and ideas, I thought updating this post with some information would be the best thing to do.

This bowl could be from India (according to the seller). But influence is Old world middle eastern/ persian. :). I say this with all due respect to Indian style and handicrafts. We (Indians) cannot deny inspirations and influences we have had from artisans across the world. Most of the etched brass / bidri work etc. , we see in India now, are said to be inspired from work which dating back to mughal empire (1526 AD - 1803 AD) and little before the mughal period( 1200 AD - 1500 AD). During the sultanate (reign), artisans were brought from persia to work and transfer skills to Indian artisans. Hence, the Persian (middle eastern ) influence on our handicrafts (from that period and later).

Art and architecture in the Indian subcontinent, prior to mughal reign (1 AD - 1200 AD), belong to various styles for example, Sangam era aesthetics (in the south), and Rashtrakuta (north western and central parts), Kakatiyas, Guptas, etc (in the Gangetic plains and Deccan plateau). Our history is very rich when it comes to patrons of art, crafts and architecture

Indian craftsmen have known to exchange ideas with every civilization existing during their times, all thanks to extensive trade and political dynamics (for example Greek invasion (180 BC - 1AD)- who can forget Alexander), and migrations from southern Siberia into Gandhara, Kashmir, Punjab, and into parts of Western and Central India,Gujarat, Maharashtra and Rajasthan.

I believe that our furniture, art and architecture have influenced rest of the world as much as we have been inspired.  Hope this information clarifies as to why most of our indian handicrafts look similar to this. . I would definitely like to know more (and feel free to send in corrections if any). 

Thank you for liking the post and stopping by to comment..love to see co enthusiasts share their views and ideas

Friday Finds~~~Indian Movies and Danish Furniture inspirations :-)

I am a huge fan on old hindi movies (all the late 50's to early 70's) for a very crazy reason. All the drool worthy art direction and the very prominent mid century/danish influence on the decor. Super cool isn't it...want to see what I mean.

While you enjoy the very versatile Rafi on the soundtrack, and a handsome Sunil Dutt wooing a very pretty Saroja Devi ...look at all the Danish /mid century glory at work, beautifying the whole set. :). Dont miss the very prominent tea cart, dining set, hutch and the  yummy chairs and the entire living room set. And yes, dont forget the accent wall. Drool~~~

I can share a ton of such movie sets from my inspirations folder. I always wonder, as to what would have happened to all these wonderful accent and decor pieces after the movies were done being shot. I wish I could buy every piece which was ever a part of the Indian film industry...sigh!! Most of my time is spent researching whereabouts of furniture pieces i see in movies of that era...cool right!

friday finds - metronome

This week's find has so much to do with music. I am sure pianists and musicians would be familiar with this very useful and beautiful invention of the 19th century. 


Here is what I found this week - Vintage, all wood, mechanical Metronome with its original brass key!
I had been to a local antique show recently and came across a beautiful all wood instrument with a wind up mechanism. The sellers were a senior couple who patiently explained the functioning and use in detail. Thanks to them, I came to know about a very valuable instrument which has a prominent place in the world of music. I did not have my camera with me, so thought I'd share pictures from the www. :).


Name: Metronome
etymology: metron = measure, nomos = regulating
Usage:  by musicians to maintain a constant tempo while playing an instrument or vocal training. 

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Brief History:

The mechanical metronome was invented by a Dutchman named Dietrich Winkle in the early 1800's. (like the one I saw). Metronomes were said to be used by well known composers including Beethoven

How it works:

A "Metronome" is a device used by musician for managing tempo. The instrument emits a 'tock-tock' type noise at regular intervals. These audible pulses happen at intervals are measured in Beats-per-Minute. The pendulum can be adjusted to varying tempos. (Tempo is most always measured in beats per minute (BPM); metronomes can be set to variable tempi, usually ranging from 40 to 208 BPM)

 I am sure people who play the piano must be familiar with this instrument in its modern form.


A vintage style electric metronome

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I recommend this video if you wish to understand the use of metronome better :)

Don't forget to check with TDE for the giveaway annoucement...I hope to see you all participate :)

Friday Finds - Peacock Fireplace screen

It is really cold outside, temperatures are expected to fall in the coming weeks...and it is the season to curl up in front of a fireplace. A cup of hot chocolate and a nice book would be more than perfect! On that note..let me share this week's find. A fire place screen to dress up even the most drab fireplace. A very dear friend  showed it to me on our (virtual) antiquing trip :P.

This is how it looks when folded 

And then all opened up! Amazing isnt it...I was in total awe when i saw the ad...Solid brass and well made 

Image via craigslist

Talking of peacocks, and how could I forget Gagan - of peacocks and paisleys :).

Friday Finds : A Vintage, Dual Purpose High Chair

This friday, I am all set to share an amazing two in one baby chair. As usual, I found it on one of my trips on the Craigslist.

High chairs are nothing unusual, but ones which convert into multi purpose furniture, are a rare find. This one won me over as it is a vintage one.(Ah! is'nt it something i love). 


This pretty piece comes with a caned seat and back and a leather strap to support the baby.

and then, it converts into a rocking chair for the baby!

Lovely vintage support system

Beautiful isnt it!..I wish i knew more about this piece, it seems to be unmarked and is on sale for $100 :)...Let me know if you have any information about such pieces.

Pics courtesy: furniture owner via craigslist

Friday Finds - Shhhhh....

This week's find has an off beat name. :-)...hence the teaser!


I came across a shiny piece of kitchen utensil (so i thought) in a small thrift store and loved it. I clicked a few pictures with the shop owner's permission...and came back home to research about it, not knowing where to start, the picture went into my folder and lay there for a while. And then I saw this ad on craigslist and was thrilled to know the name of this mysterious kitchen utensil. It is called the Silent Butler. Funny name isnt it. The purpose of this kitchen accessory wasnt that funny though..:).. Before you laugh it off...you should know that these pieces are priced anywhere between $100 to a few thousand depending on the period, make, material used and the amount of work done on them :-)

craigslist

Silent butler??
A small receptacle with a handle and hinged cover, used for collecting ashes and crumbs.
(source: yourdictionary.com). 

Interesting isnt it!...How about looking at a few other silent butlers :)

A truly unique piece of sterling silver to add to your collection, this is it! Made by Tiffany and Company

replacecments.com

Antique European Silver Silent Butler engraved with a pretty floral motif and trimmed with a figural scroll border. 

The silent butler sits on four claw feet and the hinged opening displays a charming shell finial. And the lovely ivory handle adds an exquisite touch! The silent butler derives its’ name from the concept of decrumbing a table with the presence of a hovering bultler. Charming indeed! A suggested modern day use- fill it with candy or nuts and place it on a coffee table. source: nelsonandnelsonantiques.com

This piece was made in Italy circa 1935/40. Comes with an ivory handle 

silvercollection.it

How about a beautiful porcelain silent butler in the Kalk style. Rose & gilt floral pattern w/ moriage detail. Features Victorian style brass hardware & design

ebay

Another antique heavy gold gilt hand painted silent butler that is marked Royal Crown hand painted and numbered, but I can't quite make out the entire number. It has lovely floral either rose or apple blossom sprays and brass findings. It is in good working condition and has no chips and no cracks and very little wear. It measures 10 inches long and the thumb handle measures 4.5 inches tall overall. It has gold decorations inside on the bottom

cyberattic.com

There are rectangular box type ones as well. This piece has enamel work done on it.

worthpoint.com

Craftsman style hammered finish, in copper 

coppertolane.com


It is said that apart from silent butlers, hostess also used a crumb tray to collect food crumbs..Trays and silent butlers were paired with a brush...exquisite isnt it!


Edwardian style crumb tray and brush

carters.com

I love finding such amazing kitchen, furniture and utility pieces...Let me know your thoughts..and you are welcome to share such vintage finds to be featured on the design enthusiast!

Friday Finds...Mate` pot & Bombilla

On a recent trip a local Antique market, I came across this exquisite piece. It was a tiny gourd, scopped out and dried, and then decorated with silver. It came with an equally beautiful silver straw with a unique filter at one end. Although I have seen use of scooped out gourds as kitchen and decor accessories, I was fascinated by this pot like piece and decided to feature it as a Friday find. The gourd part is called the Mate pot and the straw is called Bombilla...:)

pic: wiki

Here is how the straws look...beautiful isnt it!!

Pic: timepassagesnostalgia.com

I saw a few pieces with really elaborate work and carving, both the pot and the straw...sigh!!

stylehive.com

mexicowoods.com

Bombilla!!

silvercollection.it

This pot is a classic South American pot /cup  used to serve a special drink called Yerba-Mate.(read more on wiki)...Yerba Mate is a traditional South American drink made by infusing leaves and twigs of a yerba mate plant. From what I read about Mate, I understand it is like our traditional Indian Chai and is said to be a drink enjoyed with friends. (nice!!)..The dealer also mentioned that people in South American countries still prefer to be served this mate and pref in a mate pot. Cool isnt it!!

Read more about this beautiful piece of South American cultural heritage >>here