Old-Timey And Eco-Friendly To Boot
Over the last few years there’s been a big push to promote eco-awareness and minimize the impact of this notoriously wasteful season. Last year, Time magazine published Maryanne Murray Buechner’s article on “How to Have a Green Christmas” and now, in her report for The New York Times, Penelope Green has named 2007 “The Year Of Eco Decorating.”
I couldn’t help but notice that fine silver antiques were not mentioned once in either article. While it’s pretty safe to say that sustainability was the last thing on the mind of any turn-of-the-century mine engineer, the silversmiths, to their credit, were committed to producing art with staying power. Their craft champions long-term usability and therefore stands in opposition to the apparent evils of disposable convenience.
So how about a small sample of vintage décor direct from the online catalogue* of Nelson & Nelson Antiques?
First off, for the environmentally aware socialite who has yet to assemble a hoard of holiday ensembles, we offer a large selection of previously enjoyed jewelry and fine accessories.
For the high-minded host we carry a number of antique sterling silver flatware sets and a whole array of serving dishes and decorative objects, including some truly stunning centerpieces.
Better than a tin-can reindeer, n’est-ce pas?
Finally, for those of you looking to make a more literal “green statement” this holiday season, check out our collection of Art Nouveau emerald crystal vases all adorned with delicate sterling silver overlay. These pieces were produced at the turn-of-the-century by various silversmith firms along America’s east coast, most notably those who eventually merged in 1933 to form the Hickok Matthews Company in Newark, New Jersey. Each piece is made of a rich, emerald green crystal and adorned with sterling silver overlay in the Art Nouveau style. Leafy silver tendrils flow across and entwine each glass in a cool, organic pattern.
And there you have it. Why support the high-stakes game of modern manufacturing when you can enjoy a timeless antique whose artistry outshines all the latest fads?
* Please note: most, but not all, of Nelson & Nelson’s inventory can be viewed in the online catalogue. Any interested parties may want to visit the store at its Manhattan location.
