The walking cane was once a necessity for the majority of the population and was part of everyday dress. During the 17th century, men of substance would carry an ivory-handled silver pique-inlaid cane, often dated and highly prized at that time. King Charles I, when on the scaffold in Whitehall, London, gave, among other items, two of his pique canes to friends and one of these handles can still be viewed today in the Carisbrooke Castle Museum on the Isle of Wight. (more…)
Scent bottles have been in existence since around 1000 BC and offer an intriguing glimpse into the fine art and culture of the time. It is perhaps not widely known that colour is often significant, for example red bottles indicate life and energy, green long life and health. Famous producers such as the Staffordshire factories, Lalique, Baccarat and Sampson Mordan & Co have produced some fine examples. (more…)
The antiquities market is now very much governed by provenance, and objects with good provenance or from noted collections always command higher prices. Items from named collections invariably have special catalogues prepared; consequently prices achieved are usually higher than for similar items from other sources. (more…)
Micro mosaics require high levels of skills to produce and are found in a wide range of objects including snuff boxes, jewellery, and frames. In recent times, value has risen steeply, fuelled by international demand for artefacts of the European Grand Tour and a better understanding of the craft. (more…)
The Utopia Pavilion is the result of collaboration between the US team S.O.M. and Regino Cruz. Beneath the metal roof with sawtooth skylights, the huger laminated timber beams with support an opening of 114 metres, make the inside of the pavilion seem like the hull of a ship. (more…)
Besides working under assignment, we also initiate new interior objects ourselves. Every new assignment requires an intelligent and unique approach towards form and function. That is why we are not tied to any one style or dogma. (more…)