I figured I should share with you where my brain cells are these days: I’m in a mad headlong rush to finish my Master’s thesis, due in January. I’m writing on the Japanese inspired silver made by the Whiting Manufacturing Company in the 1870s and 1880s. Both of these objects, a water pitcher up top, and a tea caddy below, were made by Whiting designers. Not much is none about the firm (I’m changing all that!) and most of its designers are unknown. I’ve been on a two year hunt to uncover who designed these incredible objects. I love this sort of detective work and have actually been able to find the names of some of the designers, which has been awesome!
Anyway, I thought you might enjoy seeing these beautiful objects, made by American craftsmen, but clearly inspired by the art of Japan. Just the way the blog world went nuts of Japanese masking tape last year, a hundred years ago everyone went nuts over Japanese prints and objects like these with Japanese motifs. As much as things change, they stay the same. Bonus: these objects were made entirely by hand and are sterling silver.
I’ll be done in January and then, loyal readers, you’ll have my full attention once again. I’ve reams of ideas, projects and images I can’t wait to share with you. Lots has been happening on the homefront; new art, new chairs, a brand new closet organization thanks to a fantastic stylist, plus lots of ideas for a new bedroom and six months of amazing images to scan.
{ 16 comments… read them below or add one }
Hang in there, Abbey – I know the feeling!! So excited that your detecting paid off: what justice you will be doing to these designers. Bring on the finish line(s)!!
xxxx
Congratulations! Wow – I am so impressed that you are writing your Master’s thesis. Keep it up. I absolutely love art history. Keep us updated on your thesis topic – let us know what you find. Good luck!
Good luck! I’m glad you are enjoying your thesis so much and the work sounds fascinating!
Do you get a piece of this as a prize after you hand in your thesis? Because you definitely deserve one!
these are beautiful!
These are gorgeous pieces and sounds like a fascinating line of study. May the force be with you!
Oh my god these vases are so beautiful!
The detail is breath taking!
Breathtaking. Everything!
WOW! What a cool thesis topic!
good luck on your home stretch. those silver pieces are INCREDIBLE!
good for you, abbey! i wish you every success with your thesis. you have so much on your plate, yet seem to do it with a ‘smile’, at least in writing that’s how it comes across!! x
These are so beautiful! And such an interesting topic. Hang in there and good luck…can’t wait to hear all about your latest adventures!
These are so beautiful! And such an interesting topic. Hang in there and good luck…can’t wait to hear all about your latest adventures!
Hot damn, you’ve been a busy girl! I can’t wait to see photos of your home projects. They are always so inspiring. And I’m proud of you for tackling such an ambitious project for your thesis. I’d bet those designers, dead or alive, will appreciate someone diving into their work after so many years of anonymity. Beautiful!
These are amazing! And all handmade…! Good luck with your thesis.
HAHAAHAHAA amazing this is wonderful!