Sunday, April 1, 2012

History's Runway: The Castellani Illumination Pendants








The brilliant craftsmen at Rome's renowned jewelry firm, Castellani, were best known for their gems based on archaeological designs. However, with the dawn of electric light, Castellani introduced a new, more contemporary line which they hoped would change the face of Nineteenth Century jewelry design.

Called, "Illumination," this line focused on all things which created light from torches to light bulbs. Here, we see two examples. The first takes the form of a light bulb while the other has been modeled after a silver lantern. These are part of an important parure which also includes a bonfire, a candle and a matchstick. The line was a resounding failure.








APRIL FOOLS!

These novelty trinkets have been in a covered bowl in my parents house for about forty years. They glow in the dark. I have no idea what they're for.

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