By Chuck Thompson There is some controversy as to which was the first legitimate “Christmas card.” Some accounts say Sir Henry Cole, first Director of the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, was first with the idea of a Christmas greeting card. In 1843, artist John C. Horsley was commissioned by Cole to design his first card. The artist’s […]
By Anne Gilbert The humble ashtray may not be so humble. Prices can range into the hundreds of dollars and more for unusual examples. They may not even look like conventional ashtrays, in unusual shapes and materials Ashtrays can be strictly utilitarian or almost an art form. What interests collectors are those made for the many landmark places of […]
By Sandy Dale Much is said these days about how to get along with your friends and relatives in this time of differing opinions and beliefs. The news and happenings of today can be confusing and overwhelming. I am going to share my simple rules for surviving and even enjoying this season. These rules are the same simple ones […]
By Anne Gilbert There’s nothing like a Japanese wall screen to add a touch of glamour to a condo wall. Best of all they can be as old or new, affordable or expensive. There are great bargains at auction even for Meijii(1868-1912), while those from the Edo period (1603-1867) can cost thousands of dollars. Historically, painted folding screens originated […]
By Rachel Hoffman It has been a great year, and I want to thank my readers for their interest and support. I’ve appreciated your backing me up in 2017 as I did what I do and as I undertook new projects. I traveled the country to familiar places and new ones. People everywhere greeted me with generosity and kindness. […]
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