Are You Watching?

Who is not following this very intriguing, gorgeously costumed, television series? Hint: it is definitely not Dancing With The Stars!
Of course we are referring to none other than the British period drama, Downton Abbey. It features, conflict, romance, wealth, deception, and all the delicious fashion of the day.
Oh, you must stop everything, and let us give you a glimpse of what you've been missing. We've been salivating over the sheer opulence, and magnificent beauty, of this perfectly choreographed feast for the eyes for months now.
Please take a peek, won't you? We'd love to know what you think. And yes darlings, the storyline is quite captivating too. Ciao, Al

With This Ring...

              Victorian Style Poison Ring, courtesy Cowan's Auctions

With this ring... one could hide a secret potion, poison, or elixir. During the sixteenth century the Europeans fancied such a thing. They employed these small, somewhat unassuming trinkets, to assist in their heroic adventures, and unsavory deeds.

Antique Taxco Sterling Poison/Perfume Ring, courtesy Antiques Navigator

Precious metals, and gorgeous gems were used to create these mysterious, and quite beautiful pieces.
A poison ring, (which was also referred to as a box, or locket ring) was constructed, with a small compartment, directly under the main setting.
Herein, its owner would conceal the potion, tonic, relic, or possibly a treasured memento from a deceased love.

Greek Scene Poison Ring, courtesy Austin Auction Gallery

In the 17th century, the ring was commonly made for funeral purposes. A mourner would often tuck a lock of the decedent's hair, into the ring's chamber, for safe keeping.
Today, these antique poison rings are not only highly collectible, they are affordable, and fashionable as well.

Antique Georgian Gold & Diamond Poison Ring, courtesy ebay.co.uk

Since there are a lot of cheap reproductions to be found, if you want a true antique, it is best to deal with a reputable dealer. Of course, we're not sure what you may find inside of one.... so please proceed with extreme caution.
Let us know if you have a special antique "poison ring" in your collection. We'd love to hear about it!  Cheers, Al

Vintage Poison Ring, courtesy Carroll's Auctioneers & Appraisers

Antique Musical Bird Boxes

Perhaps the most interesting, and exquisite works of art to collect, are antique musical bird boxes.
These highly sought after vintage pieces, were created with the utmost workmanship, and detail. They were crafted using the finest metals; solid gold, silver, or bronze. More elaborate decorations included enamelling, porcelain, and even further adornment with precious gems. The bird boxes were bestowed upon royalty and the like. Made in Germany, Switzerland, France, etc., these beautiful instruments have been cherished, and passed down from generation to generation.
The intricate mechanisms that lay inside these small treasures, allow the tiniest of birds to "sing"  and "take flight" atop a glistening stage, to mesmerize the child in us all.
Here are two fine examples, of these amazing musical masterpieces, in action. Please take a look....

             Video courtesy, Musical Instrument Museum, via YouTube

                           Video courtesy, Skinner, via YouTube


How beautiful, and charming these boxes are, don't you think? Here are some more images for you to enjoy....

                All photos courtesy, Gavin Douglas Fine Antiques Ltd.

What a truly unique gift to give that special person, who means everything to you, and perhaps has everything they'll ever need already. A sweet token of love that will sing it's way into your honey's heart. Or maybe, you just need to start a unique collection of songbirds for yourself.... after all, there'll be no cages to clean. -Al

The Jive Aces, "Bring Me Sunshine"

About a year ago, a good friend sent this link along to us. We would love to share it with you.
It is retro, it is uplifting, but most of all... it is fun. Enjoy! -Al

Our First "Editor's Choice" Award!

Hello friends. We wanted to let you know about receiving our first blog award! It came from Be In Style.

They are the fashion blog, filled with all of the latest shopping tips for the stylish. They are always on trend and give the "up to the minute" newsworthy information.
The editor's thought Skylark Manor, was an exceptional blog, that showcased a variety of fashion, and beautiful graphics as well.
We are honored, and graciously accept this "Editor's Choice" award. Thank you! -Al

Visit Lula Gardenia, and Skylark Manor on Etsy!

Hello friends! We wanted to tell you about the opening of our second Etsy shop called, Lula Gardenia! A little boutique, that is sure to have something for everyone who is interested in unique home decor, and accessories, inspired by the garden.
One of the items on sale now, is our beautiful preserved moss wreath (below), adorned with a gorgeous green feathered bird. It will look great on a covered porch, or even above your mantel.
We hope you'll visit Lula Gardenia soon.

At Skylark Manor on Etsy, we've added a few new goodies to our lineup of vintage and eclectic finds. One of them is the vintage anchor brooch (below), that was never found months ago in our little blog contest. It is sure to sail away, so catch it while you can! -Al

An Artist Escape, With Mariano Fortuny

Hello darlings! Today we are focusing our attention on the masterful work of Mariano Fortuny. He will forever be remembered, for his contributions to the world of fashion, and most significantly, textile design.

                                  Self Portrait, Mariano Fortuny.

Mariano was born in Granada, Spain in 1871. With his rich artistic background - his father was a painter, and his grandfather, a painter as well - it was obvious that Mariano would carry his own creativity forward and make his own mark.
Mariano's many talents included painting, sculpting, and photography. He was greatly influenced by the theatre, and had an interest in the lighting of the stage itself. He became friendly with the German composer, Richard Wagner. Mariano and he would collaborate on the creativity of grand theatrical stage productions.
Mariano sketched out the scenes and developed the look of the fashions for the actors, as well as devising inventive lighting techniques, that had never been used before.

     Mariano created the "Knossos Scarf", used as an embellishment 
     to an ensemble. Here the printed scarf is worn to cinch the dress.

Of course Mariano is best known for his fashion and textile designs. His exquisite usage of a variety of fabrics, and the glamorous looks he achieved were remarkable.
Here are some photos of the famous "Delphos" gown. Made of delicate silk, hand-dyed, and finely pleated. These garments would drape the figure for a simple, and very glamorous look.

                            Mrs. Conde Nast in her Fortuny gown.

Here are some samples of vintage Fortuny woven textiles. The combination of beautiful colors and gorgeous designs are timeless.

Recently sold Fortuny remnant.

Vintage 1920's Fortuny remnant available on Etsy.

Recently sold vintage Fortuny remnant.

Recently sold Fortuny remnant.

Fortuny remnant available on Ebay.

The Fortuny Company is still creating some of the most beautiful material today, using the same techniques, and attention to details, as they did when Mariano first founded the business so long ago.
We hope this post has sparked your interest, and that you share the same love of fabulous fashion, and textile design. Have a wonderful day! -Al