Covet
Though there is no logic to it, keeping a present inside its original
box perpetuates the magnificence of its myth a little longer, just
a few ecstatic hours more, until the inescapable metaphysical
swap between ˝wish˝ and ˝granted˝ slips in. Some of us still
hold onto the packaging—the everlasting unveiling of shiny
and new—which leaves only one question lingering over the
Prince Bleu service by Bernardaud: how to christen it. Where a
sumptuous cobalt blue tells of its mesmerizing antecedents—a
16th century ceramic summoned by the desires of Ottoman
royalty for Chinese Ming-era works—the kiss of 24 karat gold
scintillates with a steady-yourself swirl for taking in the deep,
visual richness. Plates, saucers, the Limoges surfaces of saturated
florals, volutes, and all the striking ornamentation of then and
now—it is a collection and dream made by hand, anointed
by a steamy portion of macaroni and cheese or a feast for a
prince…To purchase, 800 884 7775 bernardaud.com
Words tend to get in the way, confirms the editor with writer´s block. To witness Jupiter and Typhon embroiled in an epic disagreement, or Venus and Mars wrapped up in their tête-à-tête, even poets curse the boundaries of language. Of rapture and venom, grandeurand ambrosial whims, artis the only narrative befitting the Greek and Roman divinities. These sensational images, honoring gods and heroes of the ancient world, were housed in temples and originallyengravedonsemi-preciousstones. Surviving many dramatic centuries, they are the rare and extraordinary treasure known as the Prince Albert Collection of Intaglio Seals. In the superlative care of designer Jon Freeman, the Intaglios are brilliantly reinvigorated through stunning neo classical reproductions he handcrafts in his San Francisco studio, Tiberian Design. A meticulous delicacy blended with arresting portraiture, they express the precious preservation of a devoted alchemist. The Signature collection features Freeman´s handmade frames, an elegant place for hosting the Intaglios. There is also his creamy boxed stationery—for when the words find you. For information, 415 701 1354 tiberiandesign.com
feb + mar 2010
