My name is Kristián Mensa and I'm a 17-year-old artist from Czech Republic. Since I was a little kid, I've been always trying to look at things from a different perspective. Throughout the years, I've realized that even the most ordinary things we use daily in our lives can be somehow unique.
Like the designer herself, now 80, Elsa Peretti’s poetic designs for Tiffany & Co. remain a constant inspiration
(Above) Paint Decorated Leather Parade Hat Possibly Pennsylvania Circa 1790 With scrolled brim, in black paint, the top bears initials M.A., the sides bear word “AMERICA” and initials “FA” with a fire hydrant. (Above) Metal Globe France 1950’s A large advertising hand painted metal globe wrapped in metal film. (Above) Collection of 18th c. Sake Bottles Japan 1780’s Edo period green, cream and orange glazed ceramic Sake bottles with beautiful craquelure throughout. (Above) Santos Philippines c. 1900s Original one of a kind hand carved wood Santos head with beard. Mounted on a wood stand. (Above) Collection of Seven 19th c. Wood Hand and Glove Models United States 19th century Unusual collection of seven 19th century hand and glove models, with articulated jointed fingers, several mounted on bases. Many can be shown vertically or horizontally. Excellent patina. (Above) Roman Marble Stele, 2nd-3rd century A.D. 2nd - 3rd century A.D. “Farewell Dommnina” ISN’T IT GREAT TO KNOW THAT there are incredible and rare objects out there—just waiting to be acquired? Barring fire or disaster, great objects just move from hand-to-hand, collection to collection. Everything we own of rarity or value— we are simply caretakers for. Eventually, everything goes to someone else, or to a museum or back to an antique shop or auction house. In some ways I admire those who can live their lives simply—without the need or desire for “things.” Alas, I am not one of those. Living with art—or things which attract my eye, give me spirit and soul. I live through the objects I find, rescue, or purchase. I feel their history. I sense the maker’s hands. I am curious as to their meaning. I am drawn to compelling and powerful objects like a moth to a flame. Many of you, I know, are the same way. Does the need to collect objects fill a psychological need? Do I need “things” to feel good? I guess I’d have to say it does. So, then, my goal should be to sell or give away my last object on my deathbed— because as they say, we can’t take it with us. So, if you are still collecting things—or even if you are not—enjoy these items that you can find on 1stdibs.com. Oh, I forgot to tell you, the parade hat at the top of this post—it’s priced at $11,000.
