Philosophy of the Tent:

The best decorating and design takes inspiration from what was once done before. Whether it is in architecture, antiques, art, it all stems from a mix of inspiration and knowledge. I believe it is a duty to pass on and share the knowledge, and by no means do I think I have great knowledge, in fact the more I know the less I know.
This blog is a way not to forget what I have learned and what was kindly passed onto to me by a great many fascinating people. I thank you all.


Tuesday, 10 July 2012

Curiosities & Tat


Everyone should have a ‘curiosity cabinet’.  Odds and ends collected over the years, gifts, memos, sentimental things or Tat as my husband calls it.  Tat or not, and mine is very good looking Tat indeed, once assembled beautifully these objects are looked at in a completely different  light.  Well positioned and styled objects, no matter whether they have great value or provenance come into their own when arranged in a ‘still life’ way, alone they have far less personality. 
 The sum is greater than the parts.
I have all kinds of things from cornucopia vases to papier-mache coasters, Iranian marquetry boxes, favourite Salviati drop vases next to a much cheaper Sia vase of a similar shape. Miniature dolls house furniture and odd bits of antique silver from christening cups to salt and pepper holders.

I have, surprisingly enough, found a few more bits of very attractive Tat right here in Dubai.  Mostly, let's be honest, things here are bit loud and bright and the sparklier the better.  In the beginning my eyes used to hurt from the apparent lack of pretty things.  However, if you look hard enough there are some charming and witty things about.

I love my Sheikh and Sheikha dolls

Iranian pottery from the Blue Souk, Sharjah

Shell box from Antique Museum

Turkish pottery bowl of Whirling Dervishes, definitely going back for the plates!

No comments:

Post a Comment