Posts filed under ‘art’
Trafalgar Day, Part II: Nelson Memorabilia
We often think that “fan merchandise” is a product of our times. But all through history, mankind tried to express its excitement about significant events or its admiration for a fellow man (or woman) by the means they had. Of course a nice little plaque commemorating the signing of the US Declaration of Independence would have done as well, but let’s be honest, Lady Liberty is far more impressive. And as a miniature, everybody can take a bit of that commemoration home.
The victory of the Battle of Trafalgar was a markstone in the history of Britain, and Nelson, already in high favours with his fellow countrymen, achieved legendary status. Not only because of the victory itself, but also because of his death under such dramatic circumstances. Men like Collingwood who contributed just as much to the victory ended up almost forgotten (until the recent “Collingwood-revival”, which I highly welcome!), because it’s the heroic death which makes the difference between “hero” and legend”. Nelson’s funeral is, at least in my opinion, to this day unchallenged when it comes to pomp and circumstance and commiseration of the population.
It doesn’t come as a surprise that people asked for souvenirs of both the victory and Nelson, and where there’s a demand, there’s a market. Over the last months, I’ve collected documentation of such memorabilia, and I found an amazing number. The quality varies, and to our modern eyes, many of the following pieces might look overly dramatic, sentimental and maybe even downright kitschy, but we have to look at them from an 18th century’s point of view. I can promise you that future generations will not look overly kindly at commemorative plates celebrating the wedding of Charles and Camilla, either.
Please note: I’ve had to do a lot of readjusting with the following pictures, especially the glass plates. Dusty glass + flash = what on earth is that supposed to be? So if the colours look overly bright, then it’s because I tried to make the artwork visible. The originals didn’t look like that; I didn’t take the pictures which mostly come from auction catalogues (if I remember correctly). Also: VERY image heavy, dial-uppers beware!
Nelson bust, 1805 – what’s wrong here…?
Reminder: Charity Auction Ends Today!
The charity auction on ebay for the Morpeth Lions Club Flood Fund will end today. There’s still time to place your bids! Many thanks to all those who have supported the auction.
Resource/art: TEMPTING… more porcelain!
I’ve walked past a small antiques shop today and just had to take a picture of the following object. I don’t think it’s 18th century as claimed, but 19th century (for 18th century, the price would be far too low), but still, it’s extremely pretty and if I had the money, I’d be more than tempted to buy it.
Then again, the predominant style in my flat is “Tiki meets Ikea”, so it might be a good thing moths are flying out of my wallet…
DO YOU WANT SOME TEA, DEAR…?
Resource: 18th century porcelain
I’m not an expert when it comes to porcelain; probably because every vase immediately ducks and covers when I approach which, in all fairness, is a wise move.
But there are some incredibly charming artworks to admire, and today I’d like to share some of them with you. Porcelain is more than tea services, and some artists created wonderfully humourous pieces.
Is it just my vivid imagination…
… or is this 16th century painting of the Colossus of Rhodes – special?
Hm… maybe I spend too much time studying ships…
Books: “Napoleon’s Privates” by Tony Perrottet
NAPOLEON’S PRIVATES
2,500 Years of History Unzipped
by Tony Perrottet
Harper Entertainment, ISBN 978-0-06-125728-5
From the blurb on the author’s website:
What were Casanova’s best pick-up lines?
(They got better as he got older).
Which Italian Renaissance genius “discovered” the clitoris?
(He could have just asked the Venetian nuns).
What was the party etiquette at Caligula’s orgies?
(Holding one’s own could be a stressful business in ancient Rome).
How were impotence sufferers put on trial in medieval France?
(And why this should be a new reality TV show).
What were the kinkiest private clubs of Hogarthian London?
(Austin Powers would have blanched).
And what was the truth about Napoleon’s privates?
(Was it a big baguette or petit éclair? And did size matter to Josephine?)
There are some books you just have to order, even if you fear the worst when it comes to content. I hang my head in shame – when I stumbled over “Napoleon’s Privates” (now please don’t take that literally!) I couldn’t resist. Yes, yes, I know, my mind’s in the gutter at times. But if everything else fails, there’s still eBay, right?
Resource: St. Paul’s Cathedral, Collingwood, Nelson, Old Jerv and the waste bin
I’ve just returned from my two-day-trip to London. A more detailed report with additional pictures will follow some other place; for now, I will talk about St. Paul’s Cathedral, Old Jerv and the waste bin, tacky Nelson memorabilia and some musings on Old Cuddy.
Please say hello to John, 1st Earl St. Vincent. I probably don’t have to introduce “Old Jerv” to those among you who are interested in the history of the Royal Navy, but for everybody else: he was one of Britain’s great naval heroes, paved the way for Nelson’s success and has his own monument at St. Paul’s Cathedral. That one here is a “promotional shot”. The type of picture you might find in an art book. Nice, isn’t it? Good work.
NEVER TRUST PICTURES.
Resource: Fashion Follies in 1796
I’m currently wearing a skirt with a pattern copied from 1960ies curtains in psychedelic greens and frog-shaped earrings, so I’m probably the last person who should talk about fashion, but I can’t help but smiling while looking at the following caricature by Gillray from 1796.
A soul without a body, a body without a soul. Sounds like haute couture to me…
Resource: Horatio Nelson – for that friend of yours who has everything…
“Nelsonia” are items of interest for collectors who collect items of, about, concerning, regarding, portraying, discussing etc. Horatio Nelson. As is the nature of collectible items, some are tasteful and fascinating, others are – not so much.
I haven’t made up my mind about the following item yet, but I simply couldn’t deprive you of this truly unique piece of decorative art, dating very early 19th century.
Actually, I think there should be 18th century Royal Navy action figures. Perfect for history lessons at school – just imagine how much fun the kids would have if they could have sword-fights between Nelson and The Joker! Collingwood and Magneto! Emma Hamilton versus Harley Quinn!
And there had to be dinosaurs! And flying monkeys! And spaceships! HMS Victory versus a Romulan Bird of Prey. Oh the possibilities…!
Joyful Molly 