BAMBOOZLED

March 21, 2018

BAMBOOZLED

ANCIENT CHINESE SECRETS
Most don't recall the impact of Chinese
art, architecture, culture, and cuisine on
western civilization. Marco Polo's first
visit in the thirteen century exposed us
to the mysteries of asian influence. Take Chinese blue and white porcelain. Four
centuries later, westerners finally figured
out how to make it. And to this day all
thing blue and white are the rage. Thus
centuries later we still can't get enough
of the stuff. Consider the Qing Dynasty temple jars (left) currently in our shop.
Where wouldn't they look fabulous?!

A CUT ABOVE
Of all things Chinese - bamboo has long been the most coveted of Asian materials. It's elegant form
and simplicity works in almost any application.
Van Day Truex took style down to the basics in
his home in Provence. As the photo above shows,
bamboo furniture worked equally well with local
antiques and primitive chic. As Tiffany's Design Director Van commissioned what was soon to be
a modern classic. "Bamboo" was originally only available in sterling. Soon vermeil, stainless, and
silver-plate in a variety of finishes delivered the
perfect setting in homes worldwide. Proving that
savvy style mavens can never get enough bamboo.

HISTORY REPEATS ITSELF
In the eighteenth century George, then Prince
of Wales built a Chinoise extravaganza on the
sea in Brighton. It's faux bamboo staircase is
a whimsical architectural triumph. Wit is one
of the most important elements in any room.
Consider the space above. Designed by Elsie
de Wolfe in the thirties it was home to Miss
Marlene Dietrich. Elsie's deft mix of mirrors,
wallpaper, and art deco still remain chic today.
Yet the bamboo trim is what finishes it all off.
Whether real or faux - bamboo adds an exotic
touch to any interior. Plus given it never goes
out of style, it couldn't be a better investment!

BOO WHO?
There is one problem with bamboo. If you've ever
planted any you know what I mean. Once it's well
established bamboo grows like a weed. Yet what
could be more magical than strolling through a
grove of bamboo? Last year Frank and I planted
a variety that in theory grows in Montana. Hence
as spring arrives, we're eager to see if and when it
returns in all it's glory. For those who can't plant
their own, C+V HOME has plenty of bamboo to
share. Whether faux real or not, all will work in
almost any room or decor. So why not stop by
and add a bit of the east to your wild west abode?
Following are just a few bamboozlers to consider.