by Melody Amsel-Arieli Simple magnification devices, like water-filled spheres and rock crystal (quartz) “burning glasses” were known around the Mediterranean and across the Middle East in ancient times. These evidently served not only to light kindling but also to cauterize wounds and enlarge texts. According to Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder, Nero viewed gladiator […]
Fashionable by Design By Maxine Carter-Lome When you think of luxury brands that have stood the test of time by staying true to its craftsman roots, Hermès is one that comes to mind. From its harnesses and saddles to the iconic Birkin bag (named for Actress Jane Birkin) and scarves that surround you in luxurious […]
By Maxine Carter-Lome When the gates to the Crystal Palace opened on May 1, 1851 to welcome guests to the Great Exhibition, they opened the door to the future. Thirty-two countries from around the world mounted more than 13,000 exhibits to showcase the “Works of Industry of All Nations.” The exhibits included almost every marvel […]
Stuff of Dreams: Art as Everyday Life – The Journal of Antiques and Collectibles – June 2002 Art has not always been relegated to a two-dimensional frame. It is only within the last 500 years or so that we have extracted art from our everyday lives and placed it in museums. Before that there was […]
