My Tattered Antique Book

The Young Folk's Natural History by D.G. Wood was a tattered old book I couldn't resist buying, for the title alone.  It was sitting on a shelf with several other books all of which lacked this book's personality,if you will.  I did a little research to decipher who printed it, where it came from, etc.  Here's  what I found:

Worthington Company printed many series of books for young readers in the late 1800s out of New York City and they were written by a group of authors.  This copy was printed in 1889. There are some beautiful illustrations scattered throughout the book and some very interesting descriptions of animals including: the wild ass (love that title), the vulture, the Syrian Greyhound (never heard of it!) There are many references to biblical passages as scientific evidence of the animal's existence (definitely not p.c. today!) 

This book was formerly owned by Florence Pauline Shroter of San Mateo, California as the inscription says on the first page.  I wonder where this book has been?  How long it was in her family, how many eyes have read through its texts (if any, it's pretty boring to be honest.)  But despite it's dull subject and controversial biblical references, I am fond of what it represents and love its shabby look.    I'm not sure I can part with this beauty.  

The Etsy Endeavor

Because I love vintage and handcrafted objects so much and because I often can't help but buy them when I'm caught in the moment, I have decided to sell some of my findings on Etsy.  I am excited to not only share the history I discover about these pieces, but also the pieces themselves.  If you like the story and you like the look it's yours for the taking! 

This website business endeavor is all very new to me so please cut me some slack as I learn the craft.  There is a lot going on behind the scenes of Objects of Intrigue right now.  For example I am in the midst of creating an official website/blog with it's own domain name, the whole professional deal, but there is so much to learn that it's a little slow going! 

This week I will highlight a few of the items in the pictures and give a bit of their background.  For now here is a peek at my recent treasures hunt:

To find my page on Etsy go to the site's main page and click on the dropdown menu, then choose shops.  Type in ObjectsofIntrigue (all one word)  and I should pop up.  Or you can cut and past the ridiculously long link below to your address bar so you can find me.  

 There will be more items on my Etsy page shortly I just need to catch my breath!  Here it is, I'm so excited!!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/ObjectsofIntrigue?ref=seller_info

Masculine Office Ideas

My fiancé has been interested in updating his home office and suggested I blog about office furnishings.   I know what I want for my office space, which doesn't exist at the moment by the way, but finding furniture that is a good compromise between my more feminine taste and his masculine preferences was somewhat of a challenge.  It's not like his office is in some back bedroom (it's in a living room nook, formerly a Murphy bed alcove!)  It's a great space, but definitely has to tie into our existing style. 

I went through countless online catalogues and images in search of masculine design with an antique feel.  I discovered a common theme targeted at men seems to be sleek and modern, but I finally found pieces we could both agree on, here’s a look:

 When we first moved in together and were buying furniture I figured out the key to the masculine edge that was in my comfort zone.  For me masculine vintage lies on an industrial spectrum, i.e. rivets, patinas, imperfect wood, less ornate details.  This I love almost as much as my feminine whimsical, romantic side.  It's the yin to my yang! 

 And so while there may be roses in antique silver vases and tattered old books in the apartment, they will undoubtedly be sitting on top of a recycled metal table or a rough sawn wood desk…and I think it's perfect!  

Intriguing Interior Visions

 

Carol Coleman and partner Richard Sepulveda have been bringing art and antiquity to Polk Street since 1993.  Their storefront boasts ornate chandeliers, gilded framed art and heirloom furniture that acts as a high powered magnet to my soul.  There is no possible way I could just walk by without peeking in.  And by that I mean wandering aimlessly through the treasures and losing all sense of time.

On my initial visit I didn't realize Carol and Richard started out only selling traditional fine art paintings and later broadened their collection to include antiques.  Everything is so well placed it's like being in someone's manor home full of valuable family artifacts.   They even have a bird in a large, vintage cage whose melodies are reminiscent of another era...perfectly charming.

I didn't know what to showcase in this house of luxury so I asked Carol what she loves in the store.  She pointed up and said, "chandeliers."  And so this post is all about Carol's shimmering and glamorous ceiling full of chandeliers.  

Striking Crystal Chandeliers 

1920s Alabaster 

Ornate Brass 

There is a profound elegance and soft nature to any antique chandelier.  Such attention to detail is so seldom replicated in today's pieces.  They can make a bedroom romantic, a dinning table stately,  a baby's room sweet, and a closet decadent.  I look forward to the day when I can hang one in any of those places! 

To shop for indulgences go to Interior Visions 2206 Polk Street

www.interiorvisionssanfranciscofineartgallery.com

Table Settings to Drool Over

In keeping with the last post's wedding theme and because I can't get enough of the party ideas these days, I decided to show table settings I've found.  Each one has vintage elements that makes it unique and beautiful.  Who wouldn't want to go to dine at these tables!  

Rustic yet elegant.  Perfect in every way?  I think so.

An abundance of rich linens and tableware.

The green apples in the silver bowl pop against the neutral setting.

The damask table runner adds an elegant layer of detail.

Candle holders create inviting sparkle and height.

Silverware makes the table setting so intriguing.  I love mismatched forks, spoons and knives with different scroll work or patterns like they came from great grandma's kitchen.  Oh, and initialed napkin holders too!

These succulents are a clever and bright touch.

While it's true that friends and family make the party a memorable occasion, I have to admit these elements are unforgettable as well!

Everything Wedding

I confess that with my up-and-coming nuptials this summer I've become obsessed with all things wedding.  There are so many creative venues, gorgeous dresses, romantic flowers, and whimsical details that it's hard to not dream constantly of the possibilities. These artists have the gift of transporting others to a world of their own design and I am captivated by their talent.

While these images are not necessarily antique items or pieces to put in your home like I usually highlight, they are without a doubt masterfully designed creations and worthy of recognition.  I hope you enjoy these photographs and daydream just a bit.

Beautiful detail on this flower girl dress

Bright wood nymph wreaths

The oblong center tier is so whimsical.

Sparkly Jimmy Choo's, yum!

Magical exit

I stumbled upon these super helpful websites for creating color palettes and inspiration boards for parties.  What great ideas! 

www.snippetandink.com 

www.theperfectpalette.com

They are hanging beets from the huppa, so creative.

I adore this table especially because of the books and cherries!

A room full of gorgeous undergarments.

I wish I could credit this designer, but I don't know who made this dress!  

Stunning work of art!

I had to show one of my all time favorite dress designers, Vera Wang.  She conveys such elegant style with a uniquely modern edge while simultaneously including the best of vintage design. I am in awe of everything she touches.  

Elegant Train.

Flirty paper-like embellishments.

The green sash adds so much depth.

Incredible vintage detail.

Love the bold purple and elaborate bodice.

While I adore these gowns with my entire being, I chose a less structured style for our summer, outdoor wedding.  I wish I could share it with you, but then the groom wouldn't be surprised so those pics will have to wait!