As a student of Environmental Studies, I cannot stress enough the importance and utility of understanding Earth’s natural processes. Whether noticing striated cirrus clouds (a tell-tale sign of impending rain) or feeling the shift in the wind from the south to the north as summer turns to fall, possessing and seeking out knowledge of how […]
Auction Preview
To Hold the World in your Hand
The upcoming Fine and Decorative Art Auction #5218, slated for sale on the Heritage auction block from June 19-21, reveals an interesting visual and decorative thread. Three of the pieces offered in this sale jump out as exceptional examples of the use of natural form as decoration. Even more intriguing, these examples all play with […]
How Much is Antonio Castillo Silver Jewelry Worth?
Beautifully designed and crafted silver runs through the veins of the Castillo family. Buy, Value or Appraise Your Antique and Vintage Jewelry and Gems Bid or buy antique and vintage estate jewelry and gems for sale, value your item, or request a free appraisal to sell your collection. The patriarch, Antonio, bestowed his passion for […]
Panama Pacific Commemorative Coins
A beloved set of United States commemorative coins turn 100 this year. The Panama Pacific commemorative gold and silver coins, affectionately nicknamed “commems” by dealers and collectors, were produced in limited numbers in 1915 to celebrate the opening of the Panama Canal and the corresponding Panama Pacific International Exposition, held in San Francisco, California. 100 […]
“Snakes. Why did it have to be snakes!?”
Dr. Indiana Jones may have loved his Smith & Wesson revolvers, but the most recognizable American revolver has to be Colt’s Single Action Army (aka “The Peacemaker”). Originally adopted by the U.S. Military in 1873, the pistol was dropped from Colt’s catalog around 1940 due to the production demands of WW II. It was resurrected […]
Why Americans Love “Downton Abbey” (and why we wouldn’t want to live there)
The popularity of “Downton Abbey,” the brain child of creator/writer Julian Fellowes and ITV, is something of a cultural phenomenon. While the show is universally adored, the fever pitch that fandom reaches on our side of the pond is somewhat surprising, considering the longevity of shows like Friends and Seinfeld. By way of contrast, the […]
The Next Big Thing for LAIKA
Unless you’ve been living in a cave for the past few years, the Oscar nomination for LAIKA’s Boxtrolls will not come as a surprise. The studio’s two previous forays, ParaNorman (2012) and Coraline (2009), both received Oscar nods for Best Animated Feature Film. Here’s hoping third time’s the charm. The world of animation art is […]
Women and Handbags: the Love that Dare Not Speak its Name
As romantic expressions go, even old standbys like candy, flowers, and an evening out have become hackneyed, requiring little thought or effort. To be fair, no gift or romantic gesture can adequately express the depth of feeling for your beloved, and many women even tell their significant other not to make a big deal out […]
