Reproduction Tapestries and Wall Hangings

Who doesn't love a good tapestry? Tapestries, or a picture woven into cloth, have been around for centuries - these forms of art are practical coming from many diverse cultures.

The ancient Egyptians would use them to bury the dead. The Greek Empire would line the halls of grand buildings. It wasn't until the Middle Ages where the tapestry became a status symbol, yet were used to insulate. The Lady and the Unicorn series of tapestries are by far the most well known and an example of the most reproduced as tapestries, pillows and framed art. Reproductions allow us to enjoy superb copies of the original work of art for less cost (sometimes cheaper than buying a framed print.) You just have to know where to look!

The Noblemans Way of Life reproduction tapestry that I have hung in our bedroom - this type of scene is called Mille Fleur, meaning a thousand flowers. (For reference, this reproduction cost $200)

I love using tapestries as art in my home to bring an area to life. Being a baller on a budget, you don't have to spend an arm and a leg. With research and patience you can find original tapestries, but you will pay and the scale will be on the smaller side. Typically original tapestries of a popular scene and larger in scale I've seen start at $2,000, whereas you can get a nice reproduction starting at around $200. Many original tapestries are in museums (though even museum house reproductions believe it or not.) Today you can find large reproduction collections of this ancient craft not only as wall art, but other bespoke home accessories such as throw pillows and armchairs. When it comes to wall art you can use vintage material, weavings, antique fabrics, or even plush velvet to dress your walls.

When purchasing reproductions think about the scale, because unlike originals, repros have lesser image quality because the technique is different. For example, when you have a 12' original tapestry that was woven thread-by-thread, then you shrink it down to a 4', the threads are in lower quantity and not as fine – it's the modern day idea of pixelation. Depending the source, the color will be duller than the original. This is something to think about when comparing an original tapestry to a reproduction, and also whether a fine print is more of what you are looking for. Most importantly always do your research.

I've used this 19th century french woven silk damask jacquard original tapestry in my dining room to fill the large walls and to add texture. This tapestry pattern features beautiful women holding a coat of arms with the crown & royal fleur de liz surrounded by scrolling foliage. (For reference, this original tapestry cost $350)

Advantages of tapestries or wall hangings in the home:

• Large wall hangings create a focal point that can help anchor a room or enhance the decor you already have. Think about selecting a tapestry based on the main colors of your room OR start with a unique tapestry then build a room around it based on colors and feeling
• Like in the medieval times, tapestries can add elegance to a room. Knowing the story of your tapestry will be a great conversation starter
• If your not into ornate tapestries see mid century modern, plush velvet, Swedish tapestries
• A tapestry can add warmth and texture to a room
• Tapestries or needlepoint wall hangings can also be used as a rug or decorative throw
• Need a headboard, use a tapestry behind your bed

Tapestries and wall hangings come in all various sizes and styles – I'm personally drawn to the more intricate designs that feature medieval scenes of knights and everyday life in the millefleurs style. How about you?

When I purchased this reproduction needpoint tapestry, from Anastacias Antiques, I didn't realize my walls were a bit short for this massive piece of art. I improvised and decided to use it as a floor rug in my dining room. (For a reference point, this particular reproduction due to its condition, the cost was $300)

Here are some additional resources on where to purchase tapestries online:

Reproductions:

Mille Fleurs Tapestries / Design Toscano / The Tapestry House / Reproduction tapestries on ebay

Originals:

Mansour / Antique tapestries on ebay

Mixture of antique, vintage and reproductions:

Etsy 

When purchasing online always be sure to read the fine print to make sure you are getting what you are paying for - there is a difference between vintage, antique and reproduction. Sometimes many reproductions are 30-40 years old (which would make them vintage.)

To draw the eye up the wall and connect my bedding to my DIY bed canopy, I decided to use a vintage 1970s plush red floral bedspread to fill the space. I also used an antique 1800s ecclesiastical french altar banner hanging from the ceiling to anchor as a focal point. My grandmother's lace curtains add extra softness that flow down to the floor. This is an example of an unexpected way to use tapestries and wall hangings. 

Learn more about symbolism seen the medieval tapestries:

The Unicorn Tapestries »

The Lady and the Unicorn symbols »

The Fruits and Nuts of the Unicorn Tapestries »

Symbolism of Animals and Birds » (Not particularly about tapestries, but more symbols found in churches)

French Silk Screened Tapestry Bathsheba at the Palace 16th Century Style Unused Serigraph Wall Hanging

1960s Rare Swedish Vintage wall hanging tapestry with an ancient Roman motif in blue, black and white.

1950's Greek wool bedspread that is used as a rug.

Floral Still Life Painting Tapestry is really grand and elegant

Beauty And The Beast Wall Tapestry Wall Hanging that is a mix of Moroccan and Egyptian 

This minimalistic modern fiber art tapestry is in absolute contrast to ornate medieval tapestries. 

French Millefleurs Tapestry The Dancer Silk Screened a Louvre Museum Reproduction

Old Suzani Red And Black Tapestry Bedspread

William Morris Needlepoint Tapestry Pillow - a different take on the traditional tapestry

I love how this vintage mid century modern velvet wall hanging is used across this bed! 

Vintage Plush Cotton Tapestry with deer is used in an unexpected way over a chair

Want something more mod? How about this Mid-century vintage wall tapestry from the 1960-1970s?

Ghostly Painted Woman

A special gem from my grandmother’s attic, actually painted by her herself. I particularly love the folded hands of this 18th century powdered ghostly woman. Perfectly set with false hair and waves that last for days. Translucent blues and caramels are just so pleasing to the eye, she sits inside a large dark oak frame that is soon to rest on my revamped studio of dark navy skies. 

BURIED TREASURE Summer Finds

When the warm weather hits, I have to get my fix of going to fleas and yard sales. A few weekends ago I hit the road with my step dad in search of the odd, creepy and beautiful. 

One of the last yards sales we hit before going to the Newport flea market was at this yellow house. Before finding the house, we saw some street signs but then drove around the blocks a finds times before we saw this little old vintage suitcase that welcomed you up the drive way. A petite old woman and her grown son were selling many of their belongings which looked like they each had a story of their own. There were many old shoes from the 50s, that looked like they cut the rug at one point. There were a few handbags, one in particular caught my eye, it was a 1960s Wearwell bag with a flower power vibe in light oranges, tans and greens. With a small handle and click button, I knew I had to have it for my collection and to hopefully bring back some life into it.

After that, we hit a small flea market in the small town of Newport. I found a few treasures there which I might add had a fabulous price. Below are some of my finds.

Stunning Moroccan style necklace with hand bent metal work strung with glass blue beads

LEFT: a lovely vintage Moroccan style metal piece with small bells that was hanging from a thin black cord in an old garage on the grounds of the flea market. RIGHT: a vintage metal oxidized pendant featuring what looks to be the Greek god Hermes

LEFT: a rare pin with medal of the Ladies of the Golden Eagle, which was a female auxiliary formed from the Knights of the Golden Eagle, a fraternal organization created in 1872 in Baltimore. RIGHT: petite brass locket with art nouveau detailing

Inside the locket was a photograph of an older woman; I love finding vintage photographs, as it gives me some detail as to where an object has traveled through time

Sunday, I traveled up to Blue Santa Beads in Media, PA for a little treat. About once a year I visit this bead store which has alot of variety compared to general craft stores. Its def worth the trek if you are within the 30 to 50 mile radius. 

Pictured are: rough and smooth turquoise beads, blue goldstone, carved feather beads, handcrafted leaf pendants and vintage brass pendants featuring an Art Nouveau floral design

Crafting Your Display

I'm gearing up for the annual Brandywine Arts Festival, only 1 week away, eek. I been planning my table displays in my head for a while, I've been collecting little trays and things, last year I just had one table, this year I plan on utilizing my space two tables creating an L shape. I want to stack books, suitcases and trunks that range in height and of course fresh flowers. On the side I also plan on using my old wooden door again to hang paintings and necklaces. I thought I'd share some new found inspiration and also some photos of my own display too.

Last year I revamped an old sewing traveling case, works perfect to hang necklaces and things; I removed all the old fabric and put in some lace curtains I had sitting around. My butterfly wing necklaces were a big hit especially with little curious hands viewing with magnifying glass. I caressed the necklaces with dried green moss inside an open drawer.

I've been saving money to order this fabulous wooden candle jewelry display from Urban Outfitters but when I returned they were gone, so I found them on Mod Cloth for a little bit more, but I had to have them. I also have my eye on the Astrological Jewelry Stand from Urban Outfitters, perfect for rings and other shorter jewelry items. They also have a similar one with botanical pattern.

I'm in love with this idea! Drape necklaces from vintage spools of thread, color coordinate with pale pinks and robin's egg blues, delightful. This would be perfect for my wooden door, pop in some nails and arrange, easy to break down and rearrange.
Speaking of suitcases, I adore this collection put together with lined cute fabric and the smaller shelf is a wonderful idea for smaller art pieces. I love this color combination, so happy and welcoming to the consumer.

I'm also admiring the earrings cards that read Sale, these look like vintage furniture cards stamped to give it that handmade feel. The layout of these necklaces is great too, especially the ribbon/string, I would like to hang a string in the suitcase to hang earring cards and necklaces for each displaying.

I just adore the handmade flags and the warm colors, it's like eye candy that I just want to eat up.

Perfect for quick reads and handmade; I purchased a set of four chalk board stands that I will use throughout my booth for either sale items or different price ranges to keep people in budget. I also love the vintage sterling trays from The Vintage Parlor, perfect to rest rings and things, mind you an easy project to do yourself too.

Gone Sweet, Sultry and Innocent

I'm always in search of finding new ways to offset my jewelry, so recently I was inspired by Jayne Mansfield, she could be sultry or just sweet and innocent. I took a trip to the local thrift store Saturday evening during the snow storm, and went straight to the lingerie section, not for me of course, but for my mannequin bust. I rummaged through the racks and found some lovely vintage darlings: a silk white slip with lace, a pale pink lace top, a gray silk top, a vampress long black slip and a see-through black lace shaw. I think they each have their own personality and really blend well with different styles of my necklaces. I'm also in the midst of vamping my shop for spring, I recently found this vintage white glass vase I've been shooting all my earrings on. Once those pics are complete I'm then going to reshoot everything on my old books in the perfect morning light, so until than please don't mind the mish mash of backgrounds, I've been experimenting lately.

T A K E   A  P E A K   B E L O W

~ Queen Catherine Rosary Necklace: inspired by blackened expelled marriage between Henry VIII and Queen Catherine of Aragon.

~ Through the Mini Looking Glass Necklace, perfect to view the most adored photographs or the fine white rabbit hair inside the heart locket.

~ Minnie Bow Necklace, inspired by the fabulous mouse herself!

~ Black Coral Plastic Pendant Necklace: a delightful arrangement of the sea.

~ Pearls of Wrath Earrings: simple and sweet with but a story of hopelessness. Classic pearls are a lady's best friend even in a drought, hard times and economic hardship.

Sshhwweeet Supplies!

~ You can find similar or exact findings from these sweet shops: Reduction Nation, Black Sheep Yarns, Epoche Beads and Blue Marble Beads.

I feel like a kid in a candy store when it comes to picking out new supplies, so I went a little crazy last week. New supplies just came in the mail today, that means new jewelry designs coming, yeeehhhh! Here's a little sneak peek of what is to come, however I will keep it a secret as to what they will become. Oh the madness, yet something for everyone, I've got a little vintage mixed with modern for all the gals out there.

P.S. I will be annoucing the two winners for the Mischief Night Giveaway later this week.

BURIED TREASURE Finds

One of my all time favorite things is searching for buried treasure, whether be antique stores, flea markets or my grandmother's attic! Once again I blew my money on junk or what I like to call Buried Treasure (and you wonder why I can't save for a house). Recently I've been in the organizing mode and realized that I was short on the odd and unusal; so where did I turn to: the Newcastle Farmer's Market.

The usuals were there; but a new face, a new horder and a place of glorious treasure. I spent about a half an hour at this man's table, he was a spanish man and looked as if he traveled the lonely roads like a gunslinger in search of rare finds. He had a collection of strange pieces in cases all hand picked by him, I was just in awe of his collections. He was an avid collector of antique religious medals like me, and had odd emblems, keys and a Victorian wooden cross that I wanted so bad. By the end of the day I came away with many new pieces; I can't wait to bring them to my shop all dolled up to adorn your neck, earrings or wrist.

Two brass lion head knocker drawer pulls, two vintage brass guards keys, brass pendant, petite bourbon liquor tag, vintage enamel deer brooch, rhinestone enamel and glass beads, miniature rope pulley, empty bullet shell, bullet pendant, royal emblem drawer pull, pocket watch, train whistle, stork snips, two pocket knives, vintage comb, 20 religious medals and rosary, petite chandelier spikes, plus much more.

Buried Treasure: Flea Market Finds

Don't you just love flea markets, I can't get enough of them! Last Saturday, I spent the morning at the Fairmount Ave flea market that surrounds the Eastern State Penitentiary, the flea market returns Sat, September 12, but there are a ton more coming up you can find here. 

I've been looking forward to going for the past month and went treasure hunting with my accomplice Jess and boy did I hit the jackpot! I came home a ton of vintage jewelry, plus an antique photo album with over 20 cabinet cards of one family, from the early 1800s. Below are some of the glorious finds from my adventure! These finds should be popping up in my shop within the next couple of weeks.

Top to bottom, left to right:

• Vintage pearls with rhinestone rondelles and vintage brass bird pendant and Dogwood flowers • Red glass beads with brass bead caps and two vintage silver shoe buckles with red velvet fabric

• Vintage flower brooch with glass amethyst stones

• Two antique photo buttons, one has the most amazing crackling from aging.

• An antique Pythian Sisters badge brooch, featuring the letters PLEF: Purity, Love, Equality and Fidelity. Made of sterling silver, there is an engraved name reading Jeanette Boehm and has a crown for our queendom, the scepter for our rule and the sword for wrath. There is also a beautiful smaller badge with a sun setting into the clouds, I couldn't find any of these badges with the sun symbol online, this symbol must be rarer and means the soul rising into heaven according to headstone symbols.

• Three military medals honoring a solider in shooting training, love these!

• Embroidered silver rose bracelet with beautiful detailing of red roses

• Vintage snuff / pill box pendant, features red rhinestones and the back opens to reveal your poison of choice

• Vintage daisy blush compact and two baby pink thimbles

• Royal flourish pendant with enamel crest

• White enamel bracelet with rhinestones and cabs

• Garden heart pendant with engraved flowers

• Whimsical umbrella and feather brooch

BURIED TREASURE IDEAS: Fawn Sweet Heart!

I love the outdoors and wish I was an animal myself, with retro vintage and up-cycling ideas you can bring the woodlands into your home or create an adorable ensemble. There is nothing cutter than big eyed fawns; more and more woodland animals have become all the rage, ranging from owls, birds, bunnies and squirrels. And who cannot forget Bambi, here are four finds that will have you saying "Oh, DEER"!

R E T R O   F I N D S:

1) One of my favorite things to do on etsy is perusse through the vintage section, there is never a time where I don't find something I want to buy. Today I found this adorable Vintage 1950s Deer Lamp Shade from Coming Up Roses, wouldn't this lamp shade go perfectly in a woodland themed child's room? Imagine miniature statues of animals all lined on a shelf and embroidered blankets with feathers and a sneaky fox. You can build a room, just by  having one retro find to stir up some ideas.

2) Sweet and spicy: these Vintage Wooden Deer and Mouse Salt and Pepper Shakers from Cozy Studio, are just so darn cute. Right out of the 1950s, this pair would go perfectly in a collection of other S&P shakers or even on top of your bistro table welcoming you every morning.

D E E R I N G   A C C E S S O R I E S:

~ 3) Revamp the old and put your very own spin on a retro find, that is why I love this Up-cycled red Vintage Quilted Cluth / Purse With Black Doe from Get Red Set Clutch. You can find the cutest silhouetted animals for every gal, ranging from bold red to twinkling silver. Do you have a simple accessory at home, you can jazz it up by adding a darling brooch or even be creative by doodling silly words or your own woodland scene.

~ 4) This one-of-a-kind Black Fawn in the Forest Necklace from Shup (G), is truly unique, from an ordinary wooden animal to a new painted bold and bright delicate fawn. The fawn sits amongst white lace flowers and a hint of sparkle. Bring out the kid in you with your creations, try using vintage miniature toys to make a necklace or fabulous key chain, how about a black plastic horse matched with a red silk ribbon?

I hope you've enjoyed these Fawn Sweet Heart ideas, you these ideas or if you have any ideas of your own, don't be shy we'd love to hear them! Stay tuned next time for more Buried Treasure Ideas!

Buried Treasure at the Local Flea Market

This past weekend was my first visit back to the Newcastle Farmer's Market, not only can you find all American beef jerky and the best fruit by the basket; it is a one stop flea market that holds hidden buried treasure. Alison from Spool and I spent about four hours there on Saturday, I spent almost $100, and that was practically all on jewelry, however I did come away with three vintage scarves, vintage cabinet cards and an antique concrete fawn for my yard.

Check out the mess I had to work out when I got home, but boy did I find some great things. The wonderful thing about flea markets is that the more you buy in pounds the cheaper it is. We actually found a couple of jackpot tables, all with ladies hunched around sorting through vintage earrings and chains all tangled. That's right at this one table, I must of collected 65 things in my basket, 10 bucks, can you believe. And this one lady recognized us from last year, she had dog gone and reached under the table and pulled out bags of vintage jewelry to sort through; my dream come true.

I just love when it gets warm out, I know there is going to be more where that came from. After I got home I spent an hour or so before I cleaned all the pieces and organized them into groups. Everything from classic hollywood, to whimsical garden assortments; I took some time and photographed them.

This week I will show you how to combine flea market treasure with etsy finds.