New Year’s is upon us and with it, the opportunity for a fresh start. It’s the time of year we say goodbye to the past; hello to the future. A new year is mysterious—you never know what’s coming, only what’s been. The turn of the year, and entrance into the next phase of our lives is filled with anticipation. I’ve always felt that entrances carry that same sense of mystery and promise. They set the tone of a place and of what’s to come. Entries say, “THIS is what to expect. THIS is what I’m about.” The design, color, size and forms all speak to us. So, the beginning of 2016 seemed a perfect time for a blogger like me, whose interests are art, design and architecture, to consider doorways and entries, the first thing we encounter when we come to a place. Continue reading
Dec
On November 21st, The New York Times reported a robbery at the Castelveccchio, museum in Verona Italy. Seventeen masterpieces by Tintoretto, Mantegna and Peter Paul Rubens were taken. The incredibly amateurish robbers, after demanding the keys to the car of the single museum guard on duty, used it to make their getaway. Italy has long suffered from inadequate funds to protect it’s treasures. Often I’ve found myself alone in rooms full of priceless masterpieces wondering, “where’s the security?” The museum, itself a masterpiece, designed by Carlo Scarpa,(1906 Venice-1978), is quite frankly exquisite. Everything there, including the architecture and display are pure Scarpa.
Continue reading
Nov
Ok, I admit it, I’ve been having a love affair with Italy. Four or five times a year I visit the country of my affections. I’ve learned her beautiful language, traveled all over and made good friends. Asked what I would like my granddaughter to call me, I picked Nonna, Italian for grandma. So I guess Italy and I are a thing! All this time, I’ve buying Italian mid-century design and discovering trusted sources. By now half my inventory is Italian. Feeling nostalgic about my love affair, I thought it might be fun to show you some of what we’ve sold and currently have in Italian Modern Design. Don’t miss the rest of our current inventory!
Nov
Three Essential Qualities to look for in a dealer—signs that you’re in right hands. Look for these elements to help build a working relationship with a reputable and accomplished dealer.
INTEGRITY is the most important. A good dealer is honest, and has strong moral principals. Dealers with integrity listen and respond directly to your questions. They generously share information about their pieces, They point out the specifics, like the edge treatment on a piece of glass or how a cabinet is mortared together. Dealers will educate you so you can appreciate and understand the quality of the item you are considering.
Oct
In the Style of
Attributed to
By or Documented
What does it all mean and why is it important to you?
You’re considering buying an important piece of furniture, lighting, or decorative object.
You’re going to pay a premium for a genuine work by an important maker. Good documentation is your insurance policy that your purchase is the real thing. If you are buying with an eye towards investment scrupulous documentation is essential.