The Tale of the Handbag

The handbag as defined by the Merriam-Webster dictionary, is "a bag held in the hand or hung from a shoulder strap and used for carrying small personal articles and money". The first known use of the word "handbag", was way back in 1862.
But most certainly, we all know it as the essential accessory and more, to scores of women, and some men. So many styles to choose from and fill. A clutch, evening bag, pocketbook, satchel, duffle bag, tote, messenger bag, sling bag, and even the laptop purse! Without one, our pockets would be laden with bits and pieces, some falling out, leaving a trail behind us like Hansel and Gretel.
The handbag has taken on a myriad of shapes, in many cultures, over the years. But its purpose remains today. A carry-all for life's what nots and what ifs, an ever changing diary of our personal stuff.

Grace Kelly and her Hermes bag

Some are woven and sewn from the finest of materials, or carved from something as simple as a gourd. How interesting that we share this accessory without cultural divide. We sometimes compliment a stranger, and say "What a great bag you have!" Could it be one that was handed down from great grandmother? Or is it the handbag that your sister made for you?
Whatever the case may be, these coveted darlings hold many secrets and promises inside. For when it is misplaced, or lost, we often say "My life was in there." And many times, this is true.

Vintage Whiting & Davis Bag

To replace a vintage, or one of a kind handbag is not easy. It is an assistant, a companion through it all.
We would love for you to share your "favorite handbag" stories with us. Do you have a "go to bag" for that little black dress? Let us know. And don't forget to check out some neat vintage bags that we have in our Etsy shop, Ciao! -Al

Elizabeth Taylor, A True Treasure

A tribute to an icon, a true treasure for the ages. May she rest in peace.

An Artist Escape, With Virginia Sterrett

Old French Fairy Tales

One of our favorite illustrated books at Skylark Manor is "Old French Fairy Tales" by Comtesse de Segur. It was magnificently drawn by the artist Virginia Frances Sterrett. She was born in Chicago, Illinois in 1900, and at the tender age of only 2 years old, she began to draw. She spent most of her time dreaming of far away places and putting her thoughts of these fantasies on paper. Her highly stylized imagery had a fluidity and grace beyond her years.
In 1919, Virginia was commissioned by the Penn Publishing Co. to illustrate a book of French fairy tales. She was just 19 years old. For the 16 pen and ink drawings and 8 water colors, she was paid a total of $500. The publisher then gave her an extra $250, for some extra line drawings to fill out the manuscript. This collaboration was a huge success, which led to the commission of illustrations for the 1921 edition of "Tanglewood Tales", by Nathaniel Hawthorne.

Proserpina Refuses the Pomegranate

Again, Virginia's unique style proved to lift these tales to incredible heights with her fantastic abilities. During this time though, she struggled with failing health. Virginia had been diagnosed with tuberculosis in 1916. Her work schedule was often interrupted with the need to rest and recuperate.
In 1923, Virginia's family moved to southern California. Here, she became very active in the local art scene, but again, her health was on the decline. She entered a sanitarium.
In 1928, she was commissioned to illustrate "Arabian Nights". It took her 3 years to complete the work, which brought her more praise and recognition. Yet, another masterfully executed volume of captivating illustrations.
Unfortunately, in 1931, after a relapse of tuberculosis, Virginia died. She had been in the midst of another commission, for the Penn Publishing Co. of "Myths and Legends". It was never completed.
We hope you are encouraged by this introduction, to continue to discover more about this amazing and talented artist. Give in to a fantastical journey, to another place and time. We look forward to hearing your thoughts.... Ciao! Al

Invite Antique Frames Into Your Home

There are many different styles of antique frames to collect. Depending on your own personal needs and tastes, you can easily repurpose vintage wood or metal frames and give them new life. An eclectic grouping of various sizes, filled with photos or prints, can prove to be an exciting display on an entry hall table. Or, try layering some empty frames on the living room mantle. Wonderful old gilded frames are a favorite at the manor. They even look lovely with new mirrored backs placed within them. Some people even use the larger sized frames to house their plasma televisions! You can find these lovelies at garage sales, your great Aunt's home, or on the internet. Don't worry if they are not in perfect condition, or have an amateur painting in them. Just take out the offending artwork, repaint the frame, if needed (possibly "distressing" the finish), and enjoy the new addition to your collection. Use your imagination, the sky is the limit. Below, is an interesting carved wood frame we've had at the manor, that is looking for a new home in our shop. Have a wonderful day- Al

Welcome to Skylark Manor!

Come in and sit by the fire while we talk about some vintage treasures from the past. Some antiques may spark a memory from times past. Here we will hold discussions about art, design and influential icons from long ago. Sit back and enjoy some tea as our visit unwinds. At your leisure, feel free to visit our Etsy shop and peruse some of our latest estate treasures. Please feel free to contact us with specific items you are looking to add to your own collections. We may just come across it in our attic, you never know. Thank you for stopping by.