Photography Book a Piece of Art History

JF found an old photography book, published in 1952, Henri Cartier-Bresson: The Decisive Moment. He liked the design of the cover by Matisse. He found a piece of art history. …

Ever hear of Capriccio Painting?

Bet you never knew about Capriccio paintings, employed when 16 -19th century painters were commissioned to portray architecture. They deliberately depict great architecture often in crumbling ruins in a complete …

Objects Amusing me These Days

My favorite objects? What in my tiny condo keeps me amused during the Pandemic? And why? Is it beauty, functionality, or symbolism? The first object is a 18th century tea …

Train Tracks Led to Mystery

One crisp January day during the Pandemic JF hiked up by Lake Arrowhead, near some defunct train tracks, and found this steel plate. He lugged it in his backpack the …

This Toy bank’s No Jack Ass

Sally of Santa Barbara wrote on behalf of her mom, who owns a cast-iron donkey toy bank used in Franklin D. Roosevelt‘s “Dimes for Dems” campaign. Sally, this bank is …

Belly Up To This Vintage Bar Cabinet

Out shopping the thrifts in Ventura, FT fell in love with what she calls a “throwback” style of furniture. She asked what I know about this vintage Bar Cabinet. I …

Furniture Perfect for Santa Barbara

I hear this question a lot: “Do you think we’ll sell this piece of furniture here in Santa Barbara?” Generally I answer, if it’s not Renaissance Revival, and moreover, if …