Celebrating the design and craftsmanship of the past
Tracy Xavier
I have always had a place in my heart for antiques and vintage things. Not only for their unique design styles but for the history that they brought with them. The fact that something lasts that long is in itself a testament to the quality in which it was made and then there is the design. Even the most mundane, utilitarian things like a cash register was a piece of art with it's scroll designed silver details and enamel finishes. When we are on our hunts, it takes all I have not to ooo and aawww my way into a complete hoarder situation. So we push ourselves to focus on what make sense for our business model. Thus the Victorian Button. What a perfect little specimen of micro art. The designs are a perfect blend function and art. The making of these buttons incorporated the talent and skill of craftsmen like the jeweler, the silversmith, the painter and the glassblower. The materials used in the creation of these glorious buttons covered, cut steel, brass, wood, glass, enamel, etc.
Victorian buttons are the current focus in our Mag TAK product line. The Picture Button, the Perfume Button as well as the Victorian Black glass mourning button. The picture button (1870-1900) depicted scenes of fables, mythology, the mystery of the East and the theater. Amazing detailed micro art to be admired. The designs of the buttons usually had a framed look to highlight the image like a framed piece of art. Secondly the Perfume Button, one of the best romantic concepts ever invented. These buttons were designed with an inset piece of velvet or fabric to hold the perfume drop that was added to the button. A lovely lady would offer her scented button to her suitor or soldier so that they could sew it under their collar and enjoy the beautiful scent of her while they were apart. The black glass mourning button was created as an affordable option to the Jet Black Glass as worn by Queen Victoria of England after the death of Prince Albert as a sign of mourning. "Wear A Bit Of History"!
An example of a Victorian picture button designed in a floral motif using brass and wood.
Floral design in Cut steel
Victorian black glass mourning button UPCYCLED as a magnetic Mag TAK. Beautiful delicate gold filled floral design, with a velvet covered back button.
