Shadows

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-WjoBOTz7XimjD03G5ic0IdpOrZEFBVDj_uyKdC8_w5JEJifPpcnnKdnjN3W6wn7ASjVKvot8OFhHNhwNVQH4nNNIFczgI-j3WwBcuOjOntqEiXTglpOoa9UfO1NtZb9sUeqQa4MkgsQ/s1600/Malachite+urn.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615316190418372018" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-WjoBOTz7XimjD03G5ic0IdpOrZEFBVDj_uyKdC8_w5JEJifPpcnnKdnjN3W6wn7ASjVKvot8OFhHNhwNVQH4nNNIFczgI-j3WwBcuOjOntqEiXTglpOoa9UfO1NtZb9sUeqQa4MkgsQ/s400/Malachite+urn.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 290px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> I apologize for the lack of posts lately; I've had some technical difficulties and a rather full work life keeping me otherwise occupied. Before I was entirely forgotten, I wanted to just post a few photos of this marvelous <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malachite">malachite</a> urn at the <a href="http://www.metmuseum.org/">Metropolitan Museum of Art</a>.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt8gdoXrl1g5xgVPB3yYFmRb9jNQWY3-nsObutby9dyXHUZzT5CRSJZx9ftxekrdyECu-YE-wRzorkrXKFc19H-y4HubpUxjiwOCOTSQ3R3Q5kh0RuSnCTjbJk58qw8MkL79cOPcU_cBM/s1600/shadow.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615316178270541762" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt8gdoXrl1g5xgVPB3yYFmRb9jNQWY3-nsObutby9dyXHUZzT5CRSJZx9ftxekrdyECu-YE-wRzorkrXKFc19H-y4HubpUxjiwOCOTSQ3R3Q5kh0RuSnCTjbJk58qw8MkL79cOPcU_cBM/s400/shadow.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 245px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> Probaly the most fascinating thing about it, other than that emerald green color, are the shadows created from the lighting. Two points to be made here: sometimes the affect of an object is more important than its existence and if you look past the obvious, sometimes you find something even more interesting. I'll be back soon!</div>

Shadows

I apologize for the lack of posts lately; I've had some technical difficulties and a rather full work life keeping me otherwise occupie...

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Chinoiserie automaton

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUu2PXAHHI2g6Xqz4RPOoRglQY6OI4t5mkSaAyUhzkIgvUlNaLiLezeQlTv8hUGzkiwYM8nGum4Qvz94fPiH8nyZ3eqHW7PcrAEL5OUQJbgdrFfopm_U06Ee_H6nl2ERa234tOOfzrXGo/s1600/Automaton.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610453182831987794" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUu2PXAHHI2g6Xqz4RPOoRglQY6OI4t5mkSaAyUhzkIgvUlNaLiLezeQlTv8hUGzkiwYM8nGum4Qvz94fPiH8nyZ3eqHW7PcrAEL5OUQJbgdrFfopm_U06Ee_H6nl2ERa234tOOfzrXGo/s400/Automaton.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 286px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> While working on a more in-depth post of a fantastic building I visited recently, I wanted to leave you with something just to let you know I'm still around! Located at the <a href="http://www.metmuseum.org/">Metropolitan Museum of Art </a>is a collection of ingenius bejeweled objects known as <a href="http://www.google.com/#hl=en&biw=1004&bih=612&q=automaton&tbs=dfn:1&tbo=u&sa=X&ei=-1XcTdXVNY-WsgPtg7SmDg&ved=0CBoQkQ4&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.&fp=92c87bb478bf1374">automatons</a>. These machines, popular in the mid 18th century (as so many of my favorite things were!), were mechanical moving devices; a sort of early day robot! Often they were more than a mere toy and incorporated something useful, such as the clock seen here. Made by James Cox in London, 1766, this device still would fascinate and amaze the most ardent anti-antiquarian!

Chinoiserie automaton

While working on a more in-depth post of a fantastic building I visited recently, I wanted to leave you with something just to let you know...

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Finally Framed

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2F3kStPprtgRWGv6-T5PnXwvE4uz9NwmTzxxlS8ac8r7FdFEIv_fCQqfOjSp51nUtAOt0OJTFlbXZu_uz41AsVGAmncBo6Q6VueGV101skyTKX4DZ9UEsnhzTjjNHcu_Bxz61PAvPovc/s1600/framed.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603028769185289426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2F3kStPprtgRWGv6-T5PnXwvE4uz9NwmTzxxlS8ac8r7FdFEIv_fCQqfOjSp51nUtAOt0OJTFlbXZu_uz41AsVGAmncBo6Q6VueGV101skyTKX4DZ9UEsnhzTjjNHcu_Bxz61PAvPovc/s400/framed.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 306px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /></a> You may remember I was talking about framing the sketch Patricia at <a href="http://pvedesign.blogspot.com/">PVE</a> drew for my blog header, seen <a href="http://architectdesign.blogspot.com/2011/04/french-matting.html">here</a>. Well, I finally got it back from the framer and it looks fantastic! I chose an ebonized frame in an architectural acanthus leaf pattern which I felt grounded the drawing and matte as well as relate to the subject.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi50ho41nOVFCeAQp-aOXo59xd1qBqAuewqtVHn_BWt1nbcYCOEhQ8oqZYQnu-E7dSSv4GnaFepyVrroCuU5EpxroM6TaA4cVB49twnehT2n-3LRX4IqsnRIpiCgkBQr-dp7XSWRDO42sY/s1600/french+mat.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603028764455936674" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi50ho41nOVFCeAQp-aOXo59xd1qBqAuewqtVHn_BWt1nbcYCOEhQ8oqZYQnu-E7dSSv4GnaFepyVrroCuU5EpxroM6TaA4cVB49twnehT2n-3LRX4IqsnRIpiCgkBQr-dp7XSWRDO42sY/s400/french+mat.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 269px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /></a> I had it framed at <a href="http://www.eclatdeverre.com/us/">L'Eclat de Verre</a> in <a href="http://www.cadysalley.com/index.php">Cady's Alley </a>near my office in Georgetown. I would highly recommend them based on their selection, friendliness and affordability.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjWZzYHuNiYkKPRLhqdbnxx5IVttwJ6m_cFUzGq-Yvu5d4gAZwKk6L1vRhT58kdzDeSRlL6qRYa0_T5nPHRzfqGvsnPkatAeGjk4tVllgiNcyN59tz4mYxibloDVZqrFgE7ujHHXhPyH8/s1600/no+border.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603028761394874946" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjWZzYHuNiYkKPRLhqdbnxx5IVttwJ6m_cFUzGq-Yvu5d4gAZwKk6L1vRhT58kdzDeSRlL6qRYa0_T5nPHRzfqGvsnPkatAeGjk4tVllgiNcyN59tz4mYxibloDVZqrFgE7ujHHXhPyH8/s400/no+border.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 273px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /></a> I think the added 'Lavis' or <em>French Lines,</em> drawn around the <em>French Panel</em> done with marbelized paper really add a lot to Patricia's beautiful drawing -what do you think based on the progression? It now has a proud spot on my gallery wall.</div><br /><br /><div>And don't forget the <a href="http://www.ashanging.com/en/specialty-hardware/">picture hanging hardware</a>.</div></div>

Finally Framed

You may remember I was talking about framing the sketch Patricia at PVE drew for my blog header, seen here . Well, I finally got it back f...

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Spring Dance

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiymc2ktAcBl_seU22zye2L-PyWhxzIevJlwJC9k6Ebjhv3-2jioeVVmZmOKu6UYfxoFF0IqDaJ5s1jceqoScqn6217ercjEBhMYf4yJIgMw3KpQ074bE8i0qrz7d7Z-YZi6V-Tucf9y1s/s1600/Spring+Dance.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600511263073891794" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiymc2ktAcBl_seU22zye2L-PyWhxzIevJlwJC9k6Ebjhv3-2jioeVVmZmOKu6UYfxoFF0IqDaJ5s1jceqoScqn6217ercjEBhMYf4yJIgMw3KpQ074bE8i0qrz7d7Z-YZi6V-Tucf9y1s/s400/Spring+Dance.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 347px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> In honor of this spring weather (nearly summer!) we're having here in DC, I thought I'd share with you a photograph of one of my favorite paintings at the <a href="http://americanart.si.edu/collections/search/artwork/?id=16426">Smithsonian American Art Museum</a>; <em>Spring Dance</em> by Arthur Mathews (1917). The painting is based in aestheticism; the custom frame being a part of the whole work of art by including designs and colors found within the painting. Mathews was a prominent Arts and Crafts designer and artist practicing in San Francisco who depicted his native California. Enjoy <strong>your</strong> spring dance!

Spring Dance

In honor of this spring weather (nearly summer!) we're having here in DC, I thought I'd share with you a photograph of one of my fa...

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French Matting

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJkLVncKE6ut7VZmtr0CQ-Le2WKiRfx5UyHAmaElBeiRbwSTKHTcIDevTLi2bfterNpZxig38GCFNPxJH3nLTjviSdlMImCKchkp61m4E_M2o1lcCXTvPXNQhS0NbaobABEuSVYPmDVpI/s1600/french+mat.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596768327292743538" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJkLVncKE6ut7VZmtr0CQ-Le2WKiRfx5UyHAmaElBeiRbwSTKHTcIDevTLi2bfterNpZxig38GCFNPxJH3nLTjviSdlMImCKchkp61m4E_M2o1lcCXTvPXNQhS0NbaobABEuSVYPmDVpI/s400/french+mat.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 269px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> This past weekend I tackled a project I have been contemplating for awhile. You may remember a few years ago, the generous Patricia from <a href="http://www.pvedesign.com/">PVE</a> designed my <a href="http://architectdesign.blogspot.com/2009/02/thank-you-pve.html">blog header</a> that you see today. She sent me the original watercolor and I've refrained from having it framed because I've debated turning the mat into a French mat. <br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHoWwHGvbrNhgApIuvNT2WfNc-UfXYH4_6T3x3rYRS8Oq0jcCAej8BcD5LCAKfrWbCqLMw0KVSaGSUjWd03Pq-fYPgxiayyUrSzRGT5Z_FY6wkYCl3BnAJvODMGH1o1tkj8srsRLcmAp4/s1600/no+border.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596768323451783842" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHoWwHGvbrNhgApIuvNT2WfNc-UfXYH4_6T3x3rYRS8Oq0jcCAej8BcD5LCAKfrWbCqLMw0KVSaGSUjWd03Pq-fYPgxiayyUrSzRGT5Z_FY6wkYCl3BnAJvODMGH1o1tkj8srsRLcmAp4/s400/no+border.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 273px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> A true French mat incorporates lines, watercolored borders and the occasional bit of marbelized paper. My bastardized version includes only the marbelized paper but I think it adds a little something to the overall look and feel of the drawing. I hope Patricia doesn't mind my interference with her work! I plan on having it framed (finally) in the next month and will be sure to show you all the final result!</div>

French Matting

This past weekend I tackled a project I have been contemplating for awhile. You may remember a few years ago, the generous Patricia from PV...

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Canaletto at NGA

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzDT79YwC8SNnB6Xbq6mAfbiQFAWRiMTEPFuDWsuwpVZdBSXWqsCe6Ukt_E_eB0vf_KspGOBGXiUZIaRbx4C-iJLDycpjvNqtKprCsU9wXl7Jqq82rrI7pIHM-0x2gnfDTwKicSFh_RQ0/s1600/gondola.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590615706750536322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzDT79YwC8SNnB6Xbq6mAfbiQFAWRiMTEPFuDWsuwpVZdBSXWqsCe6Ukt_E_eB0vf_KspGOBGXiUZIaRbx4C-iJLDycpjvNqtKprCsU9wXl7Jqq82rrI7pIHM-0x2gnfDTwKicSFh_RQ0/s400/gondola.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 234px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /></a> Have weekend plans here in DC? Why not stop by the National Gallery of Art to see the current show entitled <a href="http://www.nga.gov/exhibitions/veniceinfo.shtm"><em>Venice: Canaletto and his rivals.</em></a> Canaletto seems to be in the air here in DC, with numerous galleries and antique shops throughout Georgetown showcasing paintings in similar style. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590615701160854290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKSpA3KsBvF6BVOoXhRqgcfg2wcxyriFCod4X05F-N-EXZSJCMZPpYwgSNCw96-06yFkG4LBFptkJkWZ83f886T1_ENhJIn2NxWguThf6S7rftUld3dejwFWlmfy0WhsP5aPhZFoHHgog/s400/canaletto.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 255px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />At the entrance to the exhibit is an original 19th century gondola that was purchased by the artist Thomas Moran and brought to his house on Long Island.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590615699149347074" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAYFYZnPl3Uoat7Cg4UKOnf6too9IEIRapMW-xMb8vg3c3sO-eF_AauxHLkj-YVOjU-iG20JDZ2AqlEGRE2z-EjzGJZ3xavZw202pQlteZ0v4-E0Lt2Gbz8cPn4SxIWa30UU42A7kfoGE/s400/venice.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 239px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />The timing seems ideal as I'm currently obsessed with the Venetian fantasy that is Vizcaya. You'll find me at <a href="http://www.nga.gov/">NGA</a> on Saturday! <br /><div><em>Photos taken with my camera phone a few weeks prior to help me to remember to visit the exhibit!</em></div>

Canaletto at NGA

Have weekend plans here in DC? Why not stop by the National Gallery of Art to see the current show entitled Venice: Canaletto and his rival...

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Vizcaya: The pool

<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581554395623357634" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxp8ngcJ9mVk8l60kcjK0n2BqOAS8YeOkI8RQCqGXnj8LtLgHsrMYepMWMZIA0IfladSj0duH51_uy6_L9eJzk3cTDBKk8ydCMiNnLr5Jm2_0yUGf28-4VSUxIUEPVIfzdmSF8KU5D8VA/s400/house+backdrop.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 302px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />Last week, in my post on <a href="http://architectdesign.blogspot.com/2011/03/vicaya-bayside.html">Vizcaya's bayside </a>facade, I mentioned the pool which ingeniusly slips into the house for access and shelter.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581554406933231922" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPpx10HVcrhlTdNbSbbHAr_2w3ttpazlKerbeWWo5ogxi2Ng_jlZEY2NFzilnx939InImaElkLYsMOC20CoRVwDZtJncEm-CZy1iv_pzecJmV2QBsvUgFuMC2M2o9IrphRLD5LotuQp9w/s400/pink+wall.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 304px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /><a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/01159724663060240920">The Swan</a> was kind enough to remind us that the pool's grotto has a ceiling which was painted by the artist<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Winthrop_Chanler"> Robert Winthrop Chanler</a>.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581554564394828082" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhndUZIMgcK8akQQKaYa7oA9Ad_xHWfcMfhTkz3WdGYdxFtqAuTFjGnBtR_mREi7yO6bjGg78JnleuZk0DMBHJAk6e5ddVsB8rS-GkMbDmczocslXDwZEvDGVdJf_XvixdtQuCObNFctK4/s400/roman+styled+pool.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 297px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />Chanler, like others involved with the project, received his education at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts in Paris. Deering hired him to work on an 'under sea' fantasy fresco to decorate the interior of the pool grotto.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZQFVr58ooClPOGJzI_dY9zPXpt5enx7iNmH8NZ4pYSDSnIm1VLDdes5oPxkIK9GuN7PKWZNhE_MJAaEHRbIMuWxIhN83FWAo3QhsrLsa-TM4wmEosSg96MSeuYkJdQw05JIwfk81cdVQ/s1600/steps.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581554569799560978" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZQFVr58ooClPOGJzI_dY9zPXpt5enx7iNmH8NZ4pYSDSnIm1VLDdes5oPxkIK9GuN7PKWZNhE_MJAaEHRbIMuWxIhN83FWAo3QhsrLsa-TM4wmEosSg96MSeuYkJdQw05JIwfk81cdVQ/s400/steps.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 283px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /></a> The exterior access to the pool is via flanking coral limestone staircases that matches the rest of the house's stone.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrgo3D9HEwILThaFZBQJI4Eemos5xltjUJYOkfR6UY60LBOrwWgtblRJLufepAKiCVCoeTx1ET5ecuM1uBQ62FI9xnNheXo3jjiVOIW-wp_CwTLqii7lY2vV89pwhvfZLqyNuIH8fhcDE/s1600/stained+glass+doors.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581554562299807522" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrgo3D9HEwILThaFZBQJI4Eemos5xltjUJYOkfR6UY60LBOrwWgtblRJLufepAKiCVCoeTx1ET5ecuM1uBQ62FI9xnNheXo3jjiVOIW-wp_CwTLqii7lY2vV89pwhvfZLqyNuIH8fhcDE/s400/stained+glass+doors.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /></a>Interior access to the pool was via the lower level through 2 sets of french stained glass doors. These doors are adjacent to held Deering's smoking room (soon to be a giftshop) as well as a bowling alley (soon to be cafe)!<br /><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN6VjYLPLxFNYGunJG09an2Of_gr8hclzap9DNgNIEzeGoPG26iZOv7DMn3plvEHudybk-c7aeMR0fyEauzhdNo6e39Ia0RmBxenNSfRA7w9qIx4Yyzs0lR7oHSsJRCpo3f176qybc7_s/s1600/pool+deck.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581554558750785794" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN6VjYLPLxFNYGunJG09an2Of_gr8hclzap9DNgNIEzeGoPG26iZOv7DMn3plvEHudybk-c7aeMR0fyEauzhdNo6e39Ia0RmBxenNSfRA7w9qIx4Yyzs0lR7oHSsJRCpo3f176qybc7_s/s400/pool+deck.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /></a>The ceiling was first sculpted of Gesso and painted while still wet to result in the fresco we see today. The floors are marble and echo others seen throughout the house. Notice the lovely bronze guardrails.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581554405284335890" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS7HU2pHMAfUMdZwfXbNokP85-P2BbOI4z43HPX8AVvicfswi5WZ7GvKlyUr_hkOHSRp-jWqE9g7fkKCWHb7vBjNak1rEZetA4xYmDUqEiXavU0m-8WHfFjWwqZ4EQth_MO76nNKOsyEA/s400/indoor+pool.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />Moulded seashells and other sea life decorate the scenes.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581554391177627570" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-TOZ2FG0fHSzkR-u4r52-nrITKYJ8lhSY9aJSRgXcnFqR6616O-Wh8PcADM2-3H8shvLoewCt-2f9qBHb069hP04LSy4H7M6Fa1T1KOh_V9w7SrEvfnsXs32HjyjaMncEI00cyxW9CA4/s400/ceiling.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 283px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />The painting has not weathered the humidity nor the occasional hurricane damage well but the effect is still lovely. Imagine how lucky Deering's guests felt to be taking a dip here!<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581554410028255138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwPP_7EvxnPXcJeULVF5gV3N1e69g8CzYafVJd81o58iYenoKwCW4uaYFbwZlRSbuNJgB6NWc5XBVa8xhe7kXPuCoZSxkGj77ltAgdoALMwSvRrSDjiL7vQgcAkYv97uwWq0v9DYrVerc/s400/pool+ceiling.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /> <div><div><div><div><div> </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>

Vizcaya: The pool

Last week, in my post on Vizcaya's bayside facade, I mentioned the pool which ingeniusly slips into the house for access and shelter. Th...

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Color Theory

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TUZmwfCUjVI/AAAAAAAAGRA/PLNsO1BBlX8/s1600/color+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TUZmwfCUjVI/AAAAAAAAGRA/PLNsO1BBlX8/s1600/color+collage.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Happy Monday! How about starting the week with some color inspiration? As I'm writing this, my morning coffee hasn't finished brewing...I need a jolt of something! Maybe bright pink, brilliant white, with a touch of green and orange can help?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TUZm0zrCPKI/AAAAAAAAGRE/FgwJ45BEa-0/s1600/Picture+22.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TUZm0zrCPKI/AAAAAAAAGRE/FgwJ45BEa-0/s1600/Picture+22.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This is the home of <i><a href="http://www.kathydalwood.com/index.html">Kathy Dalwood</a></i>, a talented artist and designer. Her sculptures and busts are absolutely fascinating and her <i><a href="http://www.kathydalwood.com/Jan/int%20des%20intro.htm">interiors </a></i>aren't too shabby either:)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TUZm4MQYR8I/AAAAAAAAGRI/IIha5b49kDE/s1600/colorb+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TUZm4MQYR8I/AAAAAAAAGRI/IIha5b49kDE/s1600/colorb+collage.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TUZm8KAiWpI/AAAAAAAAGRM/dFhrD8KAWbE/s1600/Picture+23.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TUZm8KAiWpI/AAAAAAAAGRM/dFhrD8KAWbE/s1600/Picture+23.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">This is the only way to start your day, no? </div></div>

Color Theory

Happy Monday! How about starting the week with some color inspiration? As I'm writing this, my morning coffee hasn't finished brewin...

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A grand instrument

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBnMyr2iXlfekHQm4vJ0Nq_DSCRCoDnSUO7Tgf3BO5Luh9W-vtrb4UqGsVd_eOvyeaK1qpgFcQTdEHf2ZFMRai7QZ5j4kKyHGX01n1WIwUayr0JxkcY-v1mCHXziLokAQVzBlq39Cngcg/s1600/aesthetic+movement.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559698474211102322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBnMyr2iXlfekHQm4vJ0Nq_DSCRCoDnSUO7Tgf3BO5Luh9W-vtrb4UqGsVd_eOvyeaK1qpgFcQTdEHf2ZFMRai7QZ5j4kKyHGX01n1WIwUayr0JxkcY-v1mCHXziLokAQVzBlq39Cngcg/s400/aesthetic+movement.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> In 1903, Roosevelt had a very grand piano commissioned from Steinway & Sons for the <a href="http://architectdesign.blogspot.com/2010/12/white-house-east-room.html">East Room</a>. Steinway commissioned noted Aesthetic artist <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_Dewing">Thomas Dewing</a> to paint the inside of the gilded case in a patriotic theme which he entitled <em>America receiving the 9 muses</em>.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi78ZbL56whcHFGhP1F9bj0L8K4FXG1hJOAAoZ4L58qNHCSLPkSOfiJcvJlR17Ipu8jFavAJYrYlgDhP1lyfMOaM77UItrTdFZuB9XIVa5NrYdckU1QUGXcT31ZEkBBpQuVJHM-6JIfIDU/s1600/steinway+piano.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559698470939632210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi78ZbL56whcHFGhP1F9bj0L8K4FXG1hJOAAoZ4L58qNHCSLPkSOfiJcvJlR17Ipu8jFavAJYrYlgDhP1lyfMOaM77UItrTdFZuB9XIVa5NrYdckU1QUGXcT31ZEkBBpQuVJHM-6JIfIDU/s400/steinway+piano.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> In the painted scene, women in colonial revival gowns representing art, music, poetry and learning pay homage to America, the new steward of western culture, as represented by the seated woman. The piano now resides at the <a href="http://www.npg.si.edu/">National Portrait Gallery</a>, but I think it should be brought back to the White House, don't you?</div>

A grand instrument

In 1903, Roosevelt had a very grand piano commissioned from Steinway & Sons for the East Room . Steinway commissioned noted Aesthetic a...

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Did you remember?

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJUBhyphenhyphenS0iw0M1VUikIq_blhKXrUfVrQy3_Z_XOsm0NfwkUlly_U2g6G_8qv2G0uAEqdsgYvNmVDDA1NDMCtvJAEYmG3BPdHeQ210PkMmDnMp_aOJpbmAJ9k_HKNGHbYaDWKU4wmGzVaFM/s1600/food+poster.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551412507142560370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJUBhyphenhyphenS0iw0M1VUikIq_blhKXrUfVrQy3_Z_XOsm0NfwkUlly_U2g6G_8qv2G0uAEqdsgYvNmVDDA1NDMCtvJAEYmG3BPdHeQ210PkMmDnMp_aOJpbmAJ9k_HKNGHbYaDWKU4wmGzVaFM/s400/food+poster.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 296px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a>I love this poster from the <a href="http://americanhistory.si.edu/">National Museum of American History</a>, a branch of the Smithsonians.<br /><div>Produced during war time in the 1940s, home gardens have seen a resurgence in recent years, even at the White House! I can think of nothing better than opening up a can of pears in syrup right now in this snow but sadly, no garden here. Do you save your summer crops?</div>

Did you remember?

I love this poster from the National Museum of American History , a branch of the Smithsonians. Produced during war time in the 1940s, home ...

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Frida Kahlo: I Will Never Forget You

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQmpg-1YMFI/AAAAAAAAGEs/3utx16SzKPw/s1600/Picture+5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQmpg-1YMFI/AAAAAAAAGEs/3utx16SzKPw/s640/Picture+5.png" width="443" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Last weekend, Mark and I spent our anniversary in Dallas. (Kid free!!) My husband is so sweet, that while there; he willingly wandered through countless galleries and furniture stores with me. Thank you, Sweetie:) Anyway, I stumbled upon <a href="http://www.pdnbgallery.com/Site/HOME.html">PDNB Gallery </a> and found an exhibition of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frida_Kahlo"><i>Frida Kahlo</i></a> portraits taken by various photographers. Wow, I was so excited! Frida has been such an inspiration to me since I was a teenager. Aside, from our shared heritage; I always aspire to be as unique and bold as she was. My motto is, <i>WWFD</i>. (What Would Frida Do? For those of you too young to know what I'm talking about). The sad thing is, I have never had the pleasure of seeing her paintings in person! That's why this exhibition was a must-see. </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQmpZvpWRjI/AAAAAAAAGEk/bm9qYkGW6ko/s1600/Picture+11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQmpZvpWRjI/AAAAAAAAGEk/bm9qYkGW6ko/s400/Picture+11.png" width="358" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQmpc9FwGFI/AAAAAAAAGEo/0N7YbStWr_I/s1600/Picture+12.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQmpc9FwGFI/AAAAAAAAGEo/0N7YbStWr_I/s400/Picture+12.png" width="399" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Some of Frida's most iconic photos are part of this collection and some photos I have never seen before. They are worth stopping by to see. The exhibition closes on January 1, so don't miss it! If you can't see it, many of these photos are included in a book called<a href="http://astore.amazon.com/caroleclec06-20/images/0811856925"><i><u> I Will Never Forget You: Frida Kahlo and Nikolas Muray</u></i></a>. Check it out here,  in my brand <a href="http://carolinaeclectic.blogspot.com/p/my-book-store.html"><i>new bookstore</i></a>!</span> <span style="font-size: x-small;">I'm very excited about it, so I hope you enjoy looking through it this compilation of my favorite books.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQmuOa_9JrI/AAAAAAAAGEw/B8pUssqzshw/s1600/Picture+9.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQmuOa_9JrI/AAAAAAAAGEw/B8pUssqzshw/s400/Picture+9.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #6aa84f;">P.S. Tomorrow, I will share some of new favorite Dallas shops. Ooh, I found some great stuff!!!</span></span></span></span></div>

Frida Kahlo: I Will Never Forget You

Last weekend, Mark and I spent our anniversary in Dallas. (Kid free!!) My husband is so sweet, that while there; he willingly wandered throu...

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Ghostly Images

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQDwqipRGSI/AAAAAAAAGEQ/Ebdv2x0L1yQ/s1600/Picture+10.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQDwqipRGSI/AAAAAAAAGEQ/Ebdv2x0L1yQ/s1600/Picture+10.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> <span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.sandronirey.com/artists/anthony_goicolea/work.shtml"><i>Anthony Goicolea</i></a></span></span></div><span style="font-size: x-small;">This morning I was greeted by these ghostly images, found via <a href="http://lewoandwe.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2010-11-22T00%3A53%3A00%2B01%3A00&max-results=20"><i>Wo and We</i></a>. What attracts me to them, is the thought that perhaps there are other realities going on around us; but they are invisible to the naked eye.  Maybe the artist is allowing us to peek at this other world!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQDwvbXbMOI/AAAAAAAAGEU/ge16g89UB9Q/s1600/Picture+13.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQDwvbXbMOI/AAAAAAAAGEU/ge16g89UB9Q/s1600/Picture+13.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">So, I hope today you remember to look past the superficial. You never know what you might find!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQDwy8PZslI/AAAAAAAAGEY/VXnqiMu5se0/s1600/Picture+12.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQDwy8PZslI/AAAAAAAAGEY/VXnqiMu5se0/s1600/Picture+12.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 75px;"><tbody><tr height="13"><td height="13" width="75"><br /></td> </tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left; width: 75px;"><tbody> </tbody></table>

Ghostly Images

  Anthony Goicolea This morning I was greeted by these ghostly images, found via Wo and We . What attracts me to them, is the thought that p...

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Stunning shells

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtcUM9eoLg6CNJriuyiac3LVIs6gXgjxuWy5FRHxkWTq8xg-eO-fJWCTEGIUCuYTjnOD8WP7Oi8D6_jQjKgM8bVMOUgpv881H37nIqs50vPW4V5wO75o7Ra2cpLBe4_d_7kI6ePbPoGUs/s1600/shells.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540736118162450002" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtcUM9eoLg6CNJriuyiac3LVIs6gXgjxuWy5FRHxkWTq8xg-eO-fJWCTEGIUCuYTjnOD8WP7Oi8D6_jQjKgM8bVMOUgpv881H37nIqs50vPW4V5wO75o7Ra2cpLBe4_d_7kI6ePbPoGUs/s400/shells.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 313px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a>Another fascinating pair of objects from the decorative arts museum were these Victorian era (what is the spanish era equivalent?) shell bouquets. While these are relatively common, I had never seen any so colorful or intricate before!<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuhm8-34GAAkId0hrTOl9SraLIx2ETfWonqym3SRLYg_5aKBJdex46juV2bTbPDVqAHOfeT-0yl0y7Foz7JvxsAboax9Q6TlEtAIUa2C9GMDtExrIxdFKnLOVys22-CeUnkupIfsr3Evo/s1600/shell+tree.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540736106537472786" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuhm8-34GAAkId0hrTOl9SraLIx2ETfWonqym3SRLYg_5aKBJdex46juV2bTbPDVqAHOfeT-0yl0y7Foz7JvxsAboax9Q6TlEtAIUa2C9GMDtExrIxdFKnLOVys22-CeUnkupIfsr3Evo/s400/shell+tree.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 291px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> This one in particular was stunning - an entire garden with maiden under a canopy of shell flowers under a glass dome! Sadly the lighting in the museum needs an upgrade and the picture isn't as clear as I had hoped for. Maybe some summer craft ideas for at the beach?</div>

Stunning shells

Another fascinating pair of objects from the decorative arts museum were these Victorian era (what is the spanish era equivalent?) shell bou...

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A decorative screen

<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540314254123937474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhcPphD3QSzkm752pLEpVj5N-2dUmlmA74hexgKd0bvSxS4i5-YqmtFZpcpz5enMq3wHYgALmcOVuRHN7yYaESVQwD2zOxROiC3aAq5ArX8we5QkQ_cMyujrSV52MIx-zNj2TIYwqQ0W8/s400/painted+screen.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" />Located just outside of the city center, the Museu de Arts Decoratives in the Palau Reial de Padralbes (seen below) is definitely worth the quick subway ride. The museum focuses on the decorative arts and interior design from Barcelona throughout history. The palace also contains a ceramic and a clothing museum, but I'll bring those to you at another date.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540314257690567314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9pFawQ1l6QuPJqtkph9hZvQmmFUbnFDS0VMhLbnWksbfA8km4AJtNCXD-8Hlp1_FfFIib9T6Bqv2TRgTBNH2V6mBicht3n9GG6ZTkHq5G1-fPZZn1EGyRk7gimAtqDEacCBcVAbOpZk8/s400/decorative+arts+wing.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 290px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" />Probably my favorite object in the museum was this dramatic decorative screen by Francesc d'Assis Gali. Gali was an artist and educator who practiced in an art school he founded in 1906 until his death in 1965 which produced such pupils as Juan Miro and Josep Artigas.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540314266236009922" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBorfAF6WVdLg5t-oWcL6_JdOnFNeIF_D3_H6ukkcRhJ1kikcEt95RwFNyl-WpsWanBsT7bqciqxpBWBESnuRVlUBXXMX3BZxq8zD8-msB_-xOA0BCpEWZ52smQvMaQtFIQDEKAD1dMa0/s400/decorative+screen.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 371px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" />The screen dates to 1929, a very important year as it turns out (especially for Gali) as it is the year of the Barcelona Universal Exhibition (think <a href="http://architectdesign.blogspot.com/2008/03/barcelona-pavilion.html">Barcelona Pavilion</a>) of which he was the Artistic Advisor.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjULFMDrryF74kQJUtYX1FeGRMHhLNL4WHh2Nx52V-cw8uPcF-BhUC8EnJ0dddci-pfl9Q-QV3PAc-twZhG-sqRB837ni4Vp2hfjWD2Lo-7ExKl9QzcWnUA2PgTFhqikbrkT8gOdZ-nPAY/s1600/Gali.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540314278674412018" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjULFMDrryF74kQJUtYX1FeGRMHhLNL4WHh2Nx52V-cw8uPcF-BhUC8EnJ0dddci-pfl9Q-QV3PAc-twZhG-sqRB837ni4Vp2hfjWD2Lo-7ExKl9QzcWnUA2PgTFhqikbrkT8gOdZ-nPAY/s400/Gali.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a>The fair not only put Gali on the map internationally, but also Barcelona which has such a rich history of design. I'll be sharing with you some of my favorite items in this museum over the next few weeks -would love to hear what you think of them!

A decorative screen

Located just outside of the city center, the Museu de Arts Decoratives in the Palau Reial de Padralbes (seen below) is definitely worth the ...

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The faces of Barcelona

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2h0xre-sAdUZCPrItk9_wXCFB-svgUILj1JvnJ3yPyJsnm7egixRvuzkImlH9JgV7skrSqf8zH2EKGvA7uLiZVWLOr7DPw4aT74CkmFEx_wZcs-8ZSA9ddNQ2icZ5dc36k95MruCAMXQ/s1600/soldier.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538138571798282866" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2h0xre-sAdUZCPrItk9_wXCFB-svgUILj1JvnJ3yPyJsnm7egixRvuzkImlH9JgV7skrSqf8zH2EKGvA7uLiZVWLOr7DPw4aT74CkmFEx_wZcs-8ZSA9ddNQ2icZ5dc36k95MruCAMXQ/s400/soldier.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 260px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> Everywhere you go in Barcelona, you are being watched. If not by crowds of people out enjoying the city and people watching, then by the very buildings themselves.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcdZnSdctcX-3OTIu056d0YfZO7tSoU-3SYnIUBFvIqjDCjydnDiDfUMCgZJFMhMynft_ON9LA5zem4oAhYsxdNEzc8TYNGK9IMdOzRARnObUzgh8ZWQdGHVFgJ1j8uVKEUkkFSf0W2rA/s1600/male+statue.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538138413757109682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcdZnSdctcX-3OTIu056d0YfZO7tSoU-3SYnIUBFvIqjDCjydnDiDfUMCgZJFMhMynft_ON9LA5zem4oAhYsxdNEzc8TYNGK9IMdOzRARnObUzgh8ZWQdGHVFgJ1j8uVKEUkkFSf0W2rA/s400/male+statue.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 283px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> You can't help but notice the confrontational stares of statues on nearly every building. Beautiful, ugly, stately, comical; they all have something to say. The gentleman above reminds me so much of my father and I know what he is saying; I had too much wine with lunch! <div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiayG4rR_erSzcE5wfaSh2Lxhc2JLbC23bJb02vHeoMkGPZV6h7IWNyX0E0p8sGwEqlnOoAxtphXtGL75sVmSQo6k7_Wd8XO5_OX9Vob4vM4QcOQYgNMaRw9_zESW2Y5bi1S7_2OVi_fKA/s1600/lady+statue.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538138410359707442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiayG4rR_erSzcE5wfaSh2Lxhc2JLbC23bJb02vHeoMkGPZV6h7IWNyX0E0p8sGwEqlnOoAxtphXtGL75sVmSQo6k7_Wd8XO5_OX9Vob4vM4QcOQYgNMaRw9_zESW2Y5bi1S7_2OVi_fKA/s400/lady+statue.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> This doorway along the Carrer de Ferran in the Gothic quarter was probably my favorite, flanked by this lady and gentleman. Now what do you suppose they're thinking? That monocle doesn't look very friendly!<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJoSDODX0g-c0XkEj0_ub2I-9kTcCVJ9Fz6YS8r_mpetLtW9S4-lTVPJr77Oj46SySpcE6epa5rMI6RK-9udyXIb01JtSmPGSqw6Iuz-pJM18XFVhUNnuPKZ3f0Rctf9zTkcjVGkIIIIM/s1600/gentleman+statue.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538138403100570322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJoSDODX0g-c0XkEj0_ub2I-9kTcCVJ9Fz6YS8r_mpetLtW9S4-lTVPJr77Oj46SySpcE6epa5rMI6RK-9udyXIb01JtSmPGSqw6Iuz-pJM18XFVhUNnuPKZ3f0Rctf9zTkcjVGkIIIIM/s400/gentleman+statue.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> This fountain, also in the Gothic quarter, had 3 haunting faces glaring out; not a place I would feel comfortable taking a drink!<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiudJXZ5K6wEOe8uSOjkDLsrb5q4-Op2MzeCYDmdG3kt3me3vwScJUlGhGJ3HqMg4IG4ZUlMiCTa9fJfFOcNVYgUdsEYHAE6Jiirm3S-KejE1zQdMaZ62XXiGhUheAo4uPFQFoiQxFAWUA/s1600/faces+in+the+fountain.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538138402043177586" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiudJXZ5K6wEOe8uSOjkDLsrb5q4-Op2MzeCYDmdG3kt3me3vwScJUlGhGJ3HqMg4IG4ZUlMiCTa9fJfFOcNVYgUdsEYHAE6Jiirm3S-KejE1zQdMaZ62XXiGhUheAo4uPFQFoiQxFAWUA/s400/faces+in+the+fountain.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 257px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> I think the Barcelonians are in on the joke. This small museum had windows for an exhibition showing photographs of people facing the sculptures themselves.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifnEIoW8Jg22DORfouszNnSFmexdOKxC032n3Rt7yl04zSh8YuqkIP9E0_8iHSYDC6CFRoDZG1L7t8N2QIMQwTBQ1cpp5Pu_DR5cRFY6BS0ugdPYlFicC9AXIEjvP-4Mkh08J_MNESX-Q/s1600/exhibition.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538138396034593538" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifnEIoW8Jg22DORfouszNnSFmexdOKxC032n3Rt7yl04zSh8YuqkIP9E0_8iHSYDC6CFRoDZG1L7t8N2QIMQwTBQ1cpp5Pu_DR5cRFY6BS0ugdPYlFicC9AXIEjvP-4Mkh08J_MNESX-Q/s400/exhibition.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 303px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a>Like I said yesterday, there is something interesting around every corner!</div></div></div></div></div>

The faces of Barcelona

Everywhere you go in Barcelona, you are being watched. If not by crowds of people out enjoying the city and people watching, then by the ve...

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1 Objet En 1 Minute

<div style="text-align: center;"><object height="270" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.dailymotion.com/swf/video/x93dzc_episode-1-a-8-1-objet-en-1-minute-p_creation?additionalInfos=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.dailymotion.com/swf/video/x93dzc_episode-1-a-8-1-objet-en-1-minute-p_creation?additionalInfos=0" width="480" height="270" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always"></embed></object><br /><b><a href="http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x93dzc_episode-1-a-8-1-objet-en-1-minute-p_creation">EPISODE 1 à 8 / 1 OBJET EN 1 MINUTE / PIERRE LOTA</a></b><br /><i>Uploaded by <a href="http://www.dailymotion.com/LOTA-DESIGN">LOTA-DESIGN</a>. - <a href="http://www.dailymotion.com/us/channel/creation">Arts and animation videos.</a></i><br />Here's hoping this inspires you to add some creativity to your day!<br /></div>

1 Objet En 1 Minute

EPISODE 1 à 8 / 1 OBJET EN 1 MINUTE / PIERRE LOTA Uploaded by LOTA-DESIGN . - Arts and animation videos. Here's hoping this inspires yo...

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Madame X Giveaway

<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527519827835490402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgepvEcqV4P7hblGJ-7SQjXGnSd1NZRlcoDDvSanu1fy6ejImQ8hlNKdFjViRDccoxO7d4J_ibu7nTw2Ft-wBPiA1d08peHGeKTrxzkDAllQcGqeHLzHQSqLqJGz1jTjJUAKhtoU2oDwsY/s400/Madame_X.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 265px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />Everyone knows of the elegant portrait 'Madame X' by John Singer Sargent from 1884. However, does everyone know the backstory of its' fascinating American subject, Virginie Amélie Avegno Gautreau?<br /><div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527519819896621442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirAv8o5Lu6b6i_kVOVXJzGAwE7EnOub2j_IamMk6inv8UZ1QUFnU6_rhOmbhC3fu6_nBv-SZ2hXdRfJg_xucOGxWjGEeLtztO_XsixAmKB-pfaNxqYzEEdV4NvX2C11aXqQGYdMrm6woY/s400/gatreau+by+sargent.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 258px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /> In 2004, Gioia Diliberto wrote a fantastic book in the historical fiction genre, 'I am Madame X' which took the facts of this fascinating woman and wove a story of what her life may have been like. I'm dusting off the bookshelves and giving away my copy to a reader. On Monday, October 18th I will make the decision and mail it off! <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527519820722242146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsRBLjDyIBgS3oJxDO-BkwtqSopnoQUf_z3GSc4Ewm6D7tFuYce27t1X_z5q34iCJsd2_WRApaJ1T4d7AZdhaB_kusZE0PsJihIg6h6jibIObVbG2V36KOJ3DJ-DnyGyBJ8IlIoyx03Co/s400/sargent+sketch.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 294px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /> <div>Virginie Gautreau was notorious in her day for her many love affairs as well as her sense of fashion (maybe the Paris Hilton of her time?). She was sought out by many of the most famous artists of the day to paint her portrait, including Sargent, in order to bask in some of her notoriety. Sargent actually painted 2 portraits of her; the famous one which caused the scandal in the black gown and one in a chaste white gown shown above, as well as numerous sketches which still survive. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527519805534389682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvppZJWIJkB7wlwSYuTcCYbPiU9JCbAR-tqfHE4CpQRVozvTDGmZ9xmC4cqwGvyk7-PNnjbbVhuTaOvyqyYMy95UiSuyuQU8D-shmDINjSMgucRKmimbqfhnfmqa44pGmSiieRyzfJlvw/s400/SargentParis1885.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 303px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /> <div>Gautreau never survived the scandal over the famous portrait and mostly retreated from society, dying in 1915. Sargent sold the portrait shortly after her death in 1916 to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, calling it the "<em>the best thing I have ever done</em> ".<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527525669216974242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY4myW4Z1sFtjaO2k5OwqP3wUA7yJco3u5vHVbi0wFgcaqY5dmA3Egd60H0jPCNhMkA1KW5q48iAcFUYLGwutWlS67kDdMg0rg0-0ifDu1qtagKSeZhGXliSAacipPPe01FTn6rXfGGr0/s400/madamegautreau-courtois.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 219px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />She was painted a few times after the Sargent portrait, most famously by Gustave Courtois in 1891, which sharply references Madame X but in virginal white, seen above.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527519802884508322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFjZksfGdEdK5cNO9kwVUg2FaJB_85XGYtn20mmKKKjg6Icg_qVz6nMFUJp6InDlpLytQrZrC4ooRYzJmN5CAxLqOV0qzHWMX84-079rktJZDSsv0MxjNAcWEBqlvEboMD_LUCtxvbS6Q/s400/Antoniodelagandara_1898.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 199px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />One last portrait, showing her famous profile, by Antonio De La Gandara in 1898 probably captured her essence even better than Sargent. It was Gautreau's favorite and mine as well and I'll end the topic with it. </div><br /><div>Simply leave a comment for your chances to win a copy of the book with a way to get your address should random.org choose you. Please, US residents only. Good Luck!</div><div> </div><div><span style="color:#ff0000;">The winner is lucky #13 - David Toms! I will be in touch with you shortly, Savoir Faire!</span></div></div></div>

Madame X Giveaway

Everyone knows of the elegant portrait 'Madame X' by John Singer Sargent from 1884. However, does everyone know the backstory of its...

Read more »