December 06, 2009

Art du Jour! Queen Anna


Hans Maler, Anne of Bohemia and Hungary, Queen of Austria. 1520. The Netherlands, Private Collection.


Queen Anna was Marie Antoinette's 7th great grandmother on her father's side.  Can you spot any resemblance? I am loving the owl on her pendant and I would wear that garment this winter.

December 04, 2009

Industry and Idleness


Ah the industrious servant and the idle servant.  The story of William Goodchild and Jack Idle are told through a printed cotton handkerchief, made from an engraving (1775).  These types of handkerchiefs were made for various reasons, sometimes to celebrate a cause or event and in other cases like this, to educate.  This one teaches the viewer the importance of hard work.

The center of the handkercheif says "The Good and the Bad Servant at their Work" and shows just that.  I apologize for the sorry resolution.  The two sit at what appears to be a loom?  (Your guess is welcome.)  There is a letter posted on the wall behind them that says Good and Bad.



The good servant sits upright and works while the bad servant, possibly suffering an unwanted hangover is leaning on the loom, accomplishing nothing.

The bad servant is trying to cure his condition by drinking exactly what he drank the night before! Oh but what misfortune!  His ale has fallen to the ground and split due to his fuzzy state.  You can imagine the good servants dismay at his co-worker.  To make matters worse, it appears a thief is trying to steal something from this bad servant with a stick through the window!

Below the scene is a small bubble of moral thought for your Friday. It says:
Industry is the Handmaid of Fortune, But the Sluggard shall be doathed with Rags.

December 02, 2009

18th Century Inspired: Antoinette Collection


I love modern items that are historically inspired! The lovely Samalia has designed a collection inspired by Antoinette and 18th century French fashion.

I find each of her pieces takes an element from the period and with a modern eye, she created lovely garments that echo those details.  The designs are youthful and, well, just fun!  I could certainly see myself going to a soiree or two this spring in her dresses!

She is posting images of the garments on her blog: Samalia: Daily Confessions of a Fashion Designer.  Check out the collection as it goes up!

December 01, 2009

Welcome to the 18th Century Bad Girls Club


The Plot:
As cheesy as it sounds, there is a show called The Bad Girls Club the premise is:

selected girls are sent to a mansion where they live together, drink champagne go out to operas masquerades and possibly a brothel or two!

The Cast:
The 18th Century Bad Girls Club and it is your casting call.  Which ladies would you most like to see in the mansion?   Who would survive I wonder?

*POLL* -->
Choose the girls you would most like to see *live together* on the 18th Century Bad Girls Club on the poll to the right and the poll on Heathers page.  (same spot)



aka Madame Lavoisier

This bad girl was always considered a bit bold in the public eye.  Far too often was she perceived as acting "too male!" *shock/scandal!* *Tomboy*
~~~


aka Comtesse de la Châtre

Every house needs your lady of loose morals. Charlotte did not let fidelity spoil her fun nor did she mind having men in her private quarters for 'conversation' *Playgirl*
~~~


aka Madame Lucifer

Born of a king, knew a thing or two about self-importance, and had no qualms about being in a public family feud.  When challenged she had a temper that, to some, rivaled that of the devil himself. *Betch*
~~~



aka Jeanne de la Motte

Skilled in the art of manipulation, trickery and being discreetly conniving for her own means are ways we can begin to describe this bright *Felon.*
~~~



aka Madame Grand

Catherine doesn't need men in her life, just their money. Sure she will date them, have them buy her lavish items, give her ample allowances- but they dare not live with her. In fact it is better they stay in a different country all together! *Gold-digger*
~~~



aka Madame du Barry

It is best for men to avoid eye contact with this blond beauty. 'nuff said.  *Man-eater*