At a press preview in New York last week, fashion expert and trend forecaster Lidewij Edelkoort spoke about animalism as part of a larger trend, something she calls “post fossil.” She even named the exhibition she’s curating for Israel’s Design Museum Holon after it. Slated to open in January, the show’s full title is “Post Fossil: Excavating 21st Century Creation,” a tagline pointing to contemporary design’s growing tendency to look increasingly archaic or, well, just plain old. Along with material choices like leather, clay, and bone, and brut and raw forms, animal references are ever present, from lighting to tabletop collections. “It’s certainly not the only trend,” noted Edelkoort, “But it’s an important one… Animals have always moved us. They’re accessible.” Considering that VandM.com’s most clicked item of the week last week was the so-called “Antique Unusual German Arts & Crafts Wooden Monkey Lamp” from Quintessentia, I think Edelkoort is onto something. Keep reading for further evidence – animal lovers rejoice.
1. I’m pleased to report that this adorable 1950s ottoman isn’t wrapped in pigskin, which would be creepy. Happily, its 36-inch-wide by 34-inch-long surface is covered in a patchwork of colorful vinyl, punctuated by a black vinyl border and red vinyl ears and snout. It stands 20 inches high, which makes it a perfect play surface for toddlers or a cheerful addition to any young-at-heart’s living space. Through VandM.com dealer Center44, (212) 450-7988; http://vandm.com/Center44
2. Animals can certainly brighten anyone’s day – especially if they’re gracing one of Matt Pugh Design’s playful lighting designs. His Duck, Dog, and Cat lamp bases are available in oak or walnut and are fitted with standard brass light fittings. His tabletop collection features owl and other bird-inspired accessories, while furniture is made with sustainability and longevity in mind. Matt Pugh Design through Michele Varian, (212) 226-1076; http://www.michelevarian.com/ or http://www.mattpugh.co.uk/.
3. If your hectic schedule doesn’t allow for the constant walking, feeding, and general coddling that a real live dog requires, California-based vendor Hacienda has the next best thing. As the dealer writes, “Nice friendly Boston Bull Terrier needs a good home. No barking, no walking, no feeding. Occasional dusting. The perfect pet.” Dating from the 1930s or 1940s, this charming little guy is crafted from painted cast-iron and is hefty enough to serve as a doorstop, or simply as good company. My guess is that he’ll find a home in no time. Through VandM.com dealer Hacienda at http://vandm.com/Hacienda, (805) 613-8003.
4. I may be a little biased on this one. As a kid I collected dozens of elephants – wooden, metal, beaded, plastic, painted, I couldn’t get enough. This sculpture tempts me anew. Weighing a startling 10.8 pounds and measuring 8.8 inches tall, 9.3 inches wide, and 4.2 inches deep, the chrome-plated bronze figure closely resembles a notable work by French sculptor Ferdinand Parpan [1902-2004]. Parpan’s work was cast in black-patinated bronze by Deroyaume in a limited edition of four, and a very similar Parpan edition was auctioned by Sotheby’s in New York in 2005 for $33,000. Authentic Parpan or not, the silhouette here is exquisite and the base’s rough texture contrasts beautifully with the rest of the figure’s sleek chrome. Through VandM.com dealer Vintage Views Consignment & Consulting at http://vandm.com/VintageViews, (201) 232-4280.
5. Quirky can be the perfect remedy to winter doldrums – this little guy would make a great gift. Artist Robert Maxwell is most known for the whimsical stoneware sculptures he produced in the 1960s in Venice, California of hedgehogs, pigs, hippos, and the like, joined most notably by fantastic critters of his own creation. He’s also renowned as a talented potter. Brought to us by California vendor House of Honey, Maxwell’s signed ceramic owl is unglazed, and stands just 10 ½ inches high. Through VandM.com dealer House of Honey at http://vandm.com/houseofhoney, (626) 441-2454.
