Custom vs. Off-The-Shelf

Today we are going through the process of having custom mattresses made.  Which started a discussion on custom made home furnishing products in general.

In the 17^th and 18^th Centuries skilled furniture makers were often revered and artisans were highly regarded.  They worked mostly for noble patrons who had refined tastes and often detailed input into the design. 

In the 19^th Century, artisan factories sprung up around the USA and many lasted well into the 20^th Century.

Today, most furniture is mass produced and generally there is less individuality and quality in what is offered.

Making custom furniture is an honorable art form.  The act of making unique and one of a kind objects, with care and respect is a fulfilling experience for this creator.  For the buyer of the item, especially if they have had input into the design, the experience can be very satisfactory.

From Walking-Fortress to Pot-Stand, the Elephant is a favorite Beast for 2012.

This last weekend I picked up a pair of ceramic white elephants at a consignment shop (not to be confused with a white elephant sale) to use as side tables out in the garden.
I have always been fond of these wise and strong behemoths that have long lives and are known for their perseverance…..and whose tusks are used as an aphrodisiac.

Alexander the Great used them as war machines and Queen Victoria used smaller replicas for potted palms.    In the 19th Century, Royalty  around the world exchanged Elephants as exotic gifts and the mighty elephant, an emblem of power and authority, has been draped in silks and bangles and used as a moving throne.

As a decorative motif the elephant is versatile….we find his image outlined in textiles, wallcoverings, artwork, painted on porcelain and engraved in cutlery.

The elephant still captures our imagination and appeals to our aesthetic….long live the mighty elephant.