I'm completely in love with these vessel-like shapes by Ernst Gamperl. Taken from trees that have naturally fallen due to effects of time, each one is meticulously carved from wet wood as it dries in order to expose the grain in a new way and form. The detail is really quite amazing, and pulls wood from an otherwise normal material into an extraordinary art piece. If I am ever lucky enough to own one I would honestly consider it a prized possession.

Circular patterns carved into [Gamperl's] sculptures follow ancient Sufi customs and are deep synchronicity with the nature of the raw material itself. After the pieces have been moulded, waxed and polished into their finished shape, those same sculptural objects, appear to highlight the life of the grain and the ineffable force of nature which, in Gamperl's case, has withstood the test of time.

Pricing starts at $546.00 approx. and go up to $7,700.00 (approximately).
Buy it here.

[posted by katie]

Two new(?) items from Muuto that I'm particularly liking are this vase and carafe.

Closely Separated Vase: (also available in yellow, 10.6" h), $162.00, Buy it here.
by Michael Geertsen for Muuto

Abstract bowls, plates and cups are merged in an intuitive way. Reminding us of the beauty in disharmony and how old things can lead to new, if we change our perspective. The object works on its own, but is given a function if flowers are added.

I'm Boo Carafe: (3.39" dia. x 10.8" h), $94.00, Buy it here.
by Norway Says for Muuto

Boo is like the skin, or a balloon surrounding the water with openings that tell the simple story of fluid motion in and out of the glass. The carafe exudes a strong personality, as if it's saying "I'm Boo, who are you?"

[posted by katie]

This might be sort of a cute gift idea...

Measures 9 x 4.5 x 6.5 inches.
Made from glazed ivory ceramic.

[posted by katie]

Seeing that Father's Day is next weekend, this might be an excellent option for showing your appreciation.

A Picnic Trunk that raises the bar (or table) when it comes to outdoor dining. With a well-planned interior that keeps everything organized, and an extendable table on which to serve your feast, this Trunk will have you on your way to an adventure in no time. It’s made from durable canvas and comes with a hefty polyester carrying strap for easy transport. The trunk comes with two wine glasses, two melamine plates, cutlery, a corkscrew, two cotton napkins and salt and pepper shakers.

[posted by katie]

These vases are intriguing (and a little disturbing).

Gala Vase, $230.00, Buy it here.
Georgia Porcelain Vase, $440.00, Buy it here.
Salvador Vase, $90.00, Buy it here.

[posted by katie]

An excellent choice for a gift, perhaps?

"Designers Marina and Susanna Sent belong to a family which has worked for generations in Murano, the ancient center for the production of Venetian glass. The sisters continue the ancient tradition, giving a contemporary edge to the timeless art form. This refined piece resembles a cluster of bubbles, which sparkle with reflected light."

Made in Italy
Size: 20.5"l

[posted by katie]

Delightful arrangement of old flashcards to adorn your walls...

"They once introduced proper usage to Fifties schoolkids…cleverly rearranged, these vintage Dick & Jane flashcards now proclaim witticisms delightfully naughty and devilishly nice, phrases humorous and pointed, messages meaningful and memorable—like all truly enjoyable art. Framed behind glass in matte black metal. Each is unique."

Sizes range from 12-1/4"W x 9-3/4"H to 12-1/4"W x 21"H.

[posted by katie]

While neither of these are the most practical accoutrements, they are curious objects that some of you might enjoy collecting.

'Tougher than Leather' Skateboard: 480 € Buy it here.
"How old school can you get? Strap on this leather beauty and pose your cred away. Socks optional. Made to order. "

'Zeus' Letter Opener: Brass,155 € ; Silver plated brass: 174 €, Buy it here.
"Left or right handed, a letter knife to rip through hatemail with the stealth and fury of Zeus! Available in solid or silver-plated brass. Currently in stock."

[via trendhunter]

[posted by katie]

The Phonofone II is now available in black(!).

"Through passive amplification alone, these unique pieces instantly transform any personal music player + earbuds into a sculptural audio console. Without the use of external power or batteries, the Phonofone II inventively exploits the virtues of horn acoustics to boost the audio output of standard earphones to up to 55 decibels."

Material: Ceramic
11" x 9.5" x 20" (28 x 25 x 51 cm)

[posted by katie]

If you haven't checked out MoMA's Destination: Japan, head on over there and take a look- it's kind of fascinating.

Crystal Cloud, Yumiko Yoshimoto, 1979:
"Water in this cloud-shaped glass sculpture creates repeating natural phenomena such as forming water drops, becoming cloudy based on temperature, and shining when the water sways. Created by glass sculptor Yumiko Yoshimoto, each Crystal Cloud is mouth blown and shaped by hand. Made of borosilicate glass filled with distilled water and a polished chromium-plated brass stand. Hand-wash only."
Size: 2.75h x 3l x 1.5"diam.

$100.00, $90.00 Members, Buy it here.

Pig Cooking Lid, Marna Inc., 2001:
"Made of soft silicone with a pig face in the center, this multipurpose lid can be placed directly over ingredients in a pot to help them cook evenly, releasing steam through the pig's snout. It can also be used to cover food in the microwave, and as a grip to open lids. Dishwasher and microwave safe."
Size: 1h x 7"diam.

$18.00, $16.20 Members, Buy it here.

[posted by katie]