These incredibly beautiful flowers are the the painstaking work of a Japanese artist named Sakae. They are a form of Kanzashi:
“a traditional Japanese hair ornament that’s often worn on special occasions and accompanied by a kimono. Although they’ve been around for thousands of years, their popularity peaked in the mid-1800s as they evolved from a simple stick into rather extravagant form. And even though it’s been in decline along with many customary garments and accessories, the tradition is still very much alive and well.”
Sakae uses resin to create these incredibly awesome floral kanzashi. Depending upon their complexity, one piece can take between 3 and 30 days to complete.
Her inspiration to create was a common one: “I saw a girl dressed up for coming-of-age day and I thought she would look just perfect with a blue, translucent hair ornament. But nothing of the sort existed. So I decided to make one. Up until that point I had never made anything.”
Sakae selles her creations via Yahoo Auctions in Japan. None are available right this moment, but she has promised to post updates regarding availability on her facebook page.”
Photos by Osamu Yamazaki
[via Spoon & Tamago]
The only information I could find on this doll is that it’s an Early 19th century doll with a trunk and wardrobe, including bonnets.
and it wants to find a new home in my collection.
This is fascinating, although it only encompasses Western art.
Alexander Roslin, Portrait of a French Lady
My friend, The American Duchess, has brain-child another amazing reproduction shoe…The Astoria. Stay tuned for more information about the Mid-January pre-order.
HELL. YES. I’ve wanted a pair of her shoes for ages.
Isabelle de Borchgrave – Marie de’ Medici, 2006
“A Pietro Facchetti portrait of Marie de’ Medici served as the basis of this piece. As the second wife of France’s King Henry IV, Marie served as queen consort, and was eventually crowned Queen of France, the day before her husband died. Marie also acted as regent for her son, Louis XIII, until he was of age to reign. Louis XIII was 9 years old at the time of his coronation. As the mother of the King, one of Marie’s projects was the construction and design of the Palais du Luxembourg – which she sought to have resemble the Palazzo Pitti in her native Florence. The Palais du Luxembourg is in the 6th arondissement of Paris, and houses the French Senate.”
Be still my bloody heart.
Late 19th century Russian court drees from Kremlin Museum
I think I just whimpered out loud.
Jean-Philippe Worth
Tomorrows theme is a collection of beautiful objects in one of my most favourite colours.
