Interior Design Hound

Christmas Decorating Dorothy Draper Style: Deck the Halls with DOGS

Cynthia — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 20:17:28 +0000

Dorothy Draper, the Grand Dame of decorating, knew how to deck the halls in style for a Merry Christmas.

Entertaining is Fun! Dorothy Draper, 1941

In her 1941 book, Entertaining is Fun!, Dorothy Draper provided housewives with advice on How To Be A Popular Hostess.

Entertaining is Fun! Dorothy Draper, 1941

No detail ever missed the decorator’s eye.

First impressions were of the upmost importance to Dorothy Draper, so it was only natural to begin her Christmas entertaining advice at the front door.

Here’s the decorator’s advice for “welcoming guests the minute they get out of the car”, from her book Entertaining Is Fun!

Dorothy Draper’s Christmas Advice. Image: IDH

1. A laurel wreath that is big enough and lovely enough to be more than a mere conventional gesture.

2. Posed against a door, lacquered a dark shiny green, as serenely weatherproof as it is smart.

Dorothy Draper’s Christmas Decorating. Image: IDH

3. A big brass knocker, polished till you can see your face in it. A big door mat on which you can really stamp off the snow.

4. A big black-and-white Dog – yours may be gray or brown – to wag a welcome to his friends and yours, as only a nice Dog can.

Dorothy Draper’s Dalmatian. Image: IDH

You just have to love Dorothy Draper!

What other Interior Design Hound has ever suggested a DOG to welcome holiday guests?

Seriously. “Wag a welcome?”

I found the Dalmatian-loving Dorothy Draper’s best Christmas advice was offered up in her syndicated newspaper column, Ask Dorothy Draper…

Ask Dorothy Draper. Image: IDH

Later, I’ve got to let the Dog out,

Elizabeth Taylor Part III: Dogs and Diamonds the Auction Gift Guide

Cynthia — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 02:00:14 +0000

In celebration of the auction of The Collection of Elizabeth Taylor at Christie’s in New York, I’ve been taking a look at Dame Elizabeth’s love affair with Dogs & Diamonds.

Her passion for jewelry was well documented in her dazzling book Elizabeth Taylor: My Love Affair with Jewelry in 2002.

So here’s my Fantasy Gift Guide for the Elizabeth Taylor Auction.

Elizabeth Taylor’s Dog, a Maltese named Sugar

The Dame loved Dogs & dazzling diamonds and emeralds.

My Scottie Dog Taffy can spot a treat a mile away and couldn’t help but notice the bling around Elizabeth Taylor’s Dog Sugar’s neck in the photograph above.

Elizabeth Taylor’s Maltese Dog

Some Dog Collar, wouldn’t you say? At 14.5 inches, I’m afraid it is just too big for my Dog. Darn!

It’s Lot #28 in the Legendary Jewels, Evening Sale on December 13^th, just in case it will fit your pooch.

A wedding gift from Richard Burton in 1964, the Bulgari emerald & diamond Dog Collar necklace is estimated to fetch $1,000,000 to $1,500,000 according to Christie’s.

Yep, Sugar, Elizabeth Taylor’s Maltese had a ruff life…

“Sugar” Elizabeth Taylor’s Maltese

…snoozing on chaise lounges in Hollywood with Dame Elizabeth while wearing her jewels.

The Maltese was a real working Dog…if you count traveling the globe & making public appearances while being pampered work!

Many Pampered Pups were in Elizabeth’s life before the Maltese. Shih Tzus come to mind…

Elizabeth Taylor’s Dog Bath

What’s that they say about owners looking like their Dogs?

Elizabeth Taylor & Shi Tzu, 1972

Anyway, the Dame loved Dogs & dazzling diamonds and rubies.

“One day I’m going to find you the most perfect ruby in the world.” Richard Burton

A man of his word, Richard Burton gave Elizabeth this amazing 8.24 carat ruby ring for Christmas in 1968.

Elizabeth Taylor’s Ruby Ring

The Van Cleef & Arpels ring is Lot #77 in the Legendary Jewels, Evening Sale on December 13^th, just in case you’re looking for a Merry & Bright stocking stuffer!

Be sure to have your check book ready, because Christie’s auction estimate is $1,000,000 to $1,500,000.

One of my favorite pieces in the Christie’s auction once belonged to the legendary Hollywood costume designer Edith Head.

Elizabeth described the designer and 8-time Oscar winner as her “second mother.”

“Whenever I was in trouble, whenever I wanted a place to hide out and avoid socializing, I would go to Edith Head’s house.”

Elizabeth Taylor

Edith Head & Elizabeth Taylor

The Hollywood Fashion Hounds were lifelong friends. It was said that they bonded over Elizabeth’s Dogs which she often brought along to fittings.

As a child, Edith made costumes & clothing for all of her Pets.

“My best friends are animals – always have been”

Edith Head

Edith Head left Elizabeth Taylor a token of her affection when she died in 1981.

Edith Head’s Token of Affection for Elizabeth

A spectacular necklace created out of her collection of Victorian ivory theatre tokens.

Christie’s estimates the necklace will fetch $2000 in the upcoming auction of The Collection of Elizabeth Taylor.

In addition to Hollywood Royalty, there’s British Royalty…

The Prince of Wales feather brooch, once worn by the Pug-loving Duchess of Windsor is also in the auction.

Elizabeth Taylor purchased the diamond brooch for $620,000 poolside, via the telephone, from the Duchess of Windsor Jewelry auction in 1987.

Prince of Wales Three Feather Brooch

The estimate for the Prince of Wales Brooch? $400,000-$600,000.

If I had a few hundred thousand dollars to spend, I’d be placing my bid on Lot #128.

The Aquamarine & Pink Tourmaline Brooch set designed by Jean Schlumberger in the 1940’s, is expected to fetch $20,000 to $30,000.

I drooled over the set when it went up for auction in 2007 and I’m still drooling.

Here’s why…

Interior Designer Dorothy Tuckerman Draper

The Brooch set once belonged to Interior Designer Dorothy Draper.

Later, I’ve got to let the Dog out,

You’ll find more on Elizabeth Taylor’s Golden Retrievers, Springer Spaniels, Cocker Spaniels, Fox Terriers, Dachshunds & Poodles here.

Yorkies, Shih Tzus and Pekingese of Elizabeth Taylor’s can be found here.

Elizabeth Taylor Dame, Dogs and Diamonds: Part Deux

Cynthia — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 19:49:01 +0000

In celebration of the upcoming auction of The Collection of Elizabeth Taylor at Christie’s in New York, I’ve been taking a look Dame Elizabeth’s love life.

Elizabeth Taylor Dog Kisses

No, I’m not talking about her husbands: Hilton-Wilding-Todd-Fisher-Burton-Burton-Warner-& Fortensky…

Her four-legged loves! Elizabeth Taylor’s loving & loyal Dogs.

By the 1960’s, Elizabeth Taylor had moved on from the fashionable Dog of the fifties, the Poodle, to Shih Tzus, Pekingese and Yorkies.

Elizabeth Taylor, Dog & Eddie Fisher

Is it just me, or does the Dog Elizabeth Taylor is holding in the car with Eddie Fisher look more like a Silky Terrier than a Yorkshire Terrier?

Eddie Fisher was history by 1964, but the Pup stayed in the actress’s life.

After all, ~~Diamonds~~ Dogs are a girl’s best friend!

Here’s the cute little Yorkie with Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton…

Richard Burton & Elizabeth Taylor with Yorkie

Notice the ring on Elizabeth’s hand? I’m sure it weighs more than the Yorkie!

“My Mother says I didn’t open my eyes until eight days after I was born, but when I did, the first thing I saw was an engagement ring. I was hooked!” Elizabeth Taylor

Richard Burton fetched the “fab” diamond ring for Elizabeth Taylor in 1968:

The Elizabeth Taylor Diamond, aka the Krupp

While Richard Burton paid $305,000 for the whopping 33.19 carat diamond in 1968, Christie’s has placed an estimate of $2,500,000 to $3,000,000 on the diamond ring for the upcoming auction of The Collection of Elizabeth Taylor.

I promise you it will fetch more.

Dame Elizabeth & Richard Burton were quite a match.

Pekingese in tow, Elizabeth Taylor & Richard Burton

The jet setting couple took their Dogs everywhere.

Ski Holiday for Dogs: Shih Tzu & Pekingese

Elizabeth Taylor & Richard Burton

Quarintine for Dame Elizabeth’s Dogs? Forgetaboutit!

The yacht Beatrice of Bolivia became the world’s most expensive Dog kennel when the couple had it moored on the Thames River to avoid British quarantine regulations.

The poor pooches couldn’t leave the yacht.

Below, Elizabeth’s Shih Tzu “Tacht” watches the media frenzy ashore…

Elizabeth Taylor & Richard Burton’s Yachting Dogs

Elizabeth Taylor picked up her fashion sense while making films in Hollywood from the likes of award-winning costume designer Edith Head.

Elizabeth Taylor walking her Dog

Elizabeth was a pedigreed Fashion Hound, wearing couture long before “fashion stylists” existed in Hollywood.

Dame Elisabeth loved her Dogs & Diamonds.

This little Pup of Elizabeth’s is sitting on a freshwater pearl…

Elizabeth Taylor’s Dog Brooch, Lot # 1444

The gold & diamond Dog Brooch with ruby eyes is expected to fetch $2000-$4000 in Christie’s online auction of The Collection of Elizabeth Taylor. Bidding starts December 3^rd.

Stay tuned…

Later, I’ve got to let the Dog out,

You can take a peek at a few of the fashions, accessories & jewelry pieces from Christie’s upcoming auction The Collection of Elizabeth Taylor in a short video, here.

Looking for Part 1?

You’ll find Elizabeth Taylor’s Golden Retrievers, Springer Spaniels, Cocker Spaniels, Fox Terriers, Dachshunds & Poodles here.

Elizabeth Taylor: The Dame Loved Dogs as well as Diamonds

Cynthia — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 19:35:18 +0000

Elizabeth Taylor: “Celebrated film star, fashion icon and humanitarian,” says the Christie’s catalog for the upcoming auction of The Collection of Elizabeth Taylor.

The actress was also a life-long Dog lover.

Elizabeth Taylor & Puppy Dog, 1944

Dame Elizabeth’s first Dog (or should I say Elizabeth Taylor-Hilton-Wilding-Todd-Fisher-Burton-Burton-Warner-Fortensky’s first Dog?) was a Golden Retriever named Monty.

Elizabeth Taylor skyrocketed to fame as a child, starring in MGM movies with Dogs & horses as co-stars: Lassie Come Home (1943), National Velvet (1945) and Courage of Lassie (1946).

Later in life Elizabeth Taylor would say, “Some of my best leading men have been Dogs and horses.”

In the 1945 MGM publicity still for National Velvet seen below; 12 year-old Elizabeth Taylor has an adorable Fox Terrier at her side. (Photographer: Clarence Bull.)

Elizabeth Taylor & Fox Terrier, 1945

Dogs were more than mere co-stars of Elizabeth’s, they were her childhood companions.

As a child, Elizabeth Taylor had a kennel of four-legged best friends:

Spot, a Springer Spaniel
Monty, a Golden Retriever
Twinkle & Amy, Cocker Spaniels

Elizabeth Taylor’s Dogs, sit for a treat. Spot, Twinkle & Monty

Elizabeth Taylor named her Golden Cocker Spaniel “Amy”, after her role in the movie adaption of Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women in 1949.

Elizabeth Taylor’s Dogs get a Bath

I’ve also found several photographs of a young Elizabeth with Dachshunds, but I’m unsure if they were her pets. (Anyone know?)

I do know later in life, after the filming of Cleopatra, Elizabeth Taylor presented Richard Burton with an entire litter of Doxies!

Dachshunds & Elizabeth Taylor

Of course, by the 1950’s the Poodle was the Top Dog. Elizabeth Taylor shared her life with several of the fashionable Hounds.

Poodle Loving Elizabeth Taylor

At the age of 18, Elizabeth married hotel heir Nicky Hilton.

Elizabeth Taylor & Nicky Hilton returned from their honeymoon aboard the Queen Elizabeth on August 21, 1950 with a souvenir from Paris:

Banco, a Miniature Poodle.

Elizabeth Taylor’s Honeymoon Poodle

While Nicky Hilton would only be in Elizabeth Taylor’s life for another five months or so, Banco the Poodle stayed much longer…

about four marriages longer!

Elizabeth Taylor’s Poodle Dress

As a Fashion Hound, Elizabeth was always stylishly groomed…note the Poodle print dress.

Her passion for Poodles was followed by her passion for jewelry which was well documented in her dazzling book Elizabeth Taylor: My Love Affair with Jewelry in 2002.

The Dame loved Dogs & dazzling diamonds.

Movie Star Elizabeth Taylor & Toy Poodle

Have you finished your Christmas shopping?

Christie’s will kick off The Collection of Elizabeth Taylor auction on December 3^rd online.

Stay tuned for more…

Later, I’ve got to let the Dog out,

Disclosure

No related posts.

Holiday Gift Guide for Dog Lovers & Coffee Hounds

Cynthia — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 21:08:58 +0000

Coffee, please.

Thanksgiving was a whirlwind…

The house guests, the decorating, the baking, the cooking, the entertaining.

Pet Portrait Dog Bed. Image: Muttropolis

I have so much to be thankful for, but I think I need another week off!

Did I mention I have a major remodeling project underway in my own house?

So, to get back into the swing of things, I’m going to grab a stiff cup-o-canine and get serious about the gift giving season.

Latte Puppy. Image Caffé Society, UK

Have you noticed when you have Dogs in your life, your gift giving list grows?

My Dog has Peeps…does yours?

You know the people I’m talking about:

Pet Sitters
Veterinarians
Dog Trainers
Dog Walkers
Dog Groomers
Dog Park Buddies

The list can be a long one, so Taffy & I have put together a Gift Guide for all of the people in your Pets’ life.

What Dog-lover wouldn’t love this new mug from Fishs Eddy in New York?

Dog Walker Mug. Image: Fishs Eddy

Fishs Eddy, one of my favorite shopping spots in NYC, has created another winning Dog design with the Dog Walker mug.

Known for their fun dinnerware patterns, Fishs Eddy offers tons of fun gifts under $25 for everyone on your list.

Not familiar with the NYC store? You’ll find the dish on Fishs Eddy here.

Cappuccino Canine. Image: Skeddy

Did you notice the Dog dish next to the Dog Walker mug from Fishs Eddy?

Puggle fans rejoice!

Beagle + Pug = Puggle. Image: Fishs Eddy

At 7 inches by 3 inches, the Puggle Dog dish is the perfect size for serving up appetizers, parking a pair of eyeglasses, or catching pens & paperclips on a desk.

So fetch one for your stocking too!

Fetch Dog Java. Image: Vizsla Cafe

Fetch! Yeah, right…

Bad Dog Diner Mugs. Image: IDH

My Dog is a Dog school dropout, so I smiled when I spotted the Bad Dog collection of mugs.

Dog Trainer Diner Mugs. Image: IDH

Sit! Stay! Come!

Yep, Dog training is a fine art.

So is making the perfect cup of coffee…

Dog Coffee Mugs. Image: Latte Art

Top Dogs always start with the perfect cup.

Remember what your Mother always told you?

It is what’s on the inside that counts.

Top Dog Cup. Image: IDH

The Top Dogs on you list will appreciate the swirl design on the inside of the mug designed by Our Name is Mud.

Always remember in design, and gift-giving, it’s the small details that make a difference!

Later, I’ve got to let the Dog out and find another cup of coffee,

Disclosure

DOGS: It’s a Wonderful Life for Shopping Hounds at C. Wonder

Cynthia — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 21:42:55 +0000

Anyone heading to New York for the Holidays?

Well, it’s time to C. Wonder!

C. Wonder Dogs

See the wonder that Chris Burch created in SoHo:

C. Wonder.

It is the new store & lifestyle brand that has all of New York buzzing. Just take a look here.

The stylish retail emporium is a visual feast from the moment you reach the kelly green, lacquered doors on Spring Street.

As with anything new & original, it’s difficult to describe. There is simply no store around to compare it too…

Store Design, C. Wonder

Here’s my take on the key design elements which make the shopping environment a wonder in itself:

Dorothy Draper touches + a dash of Chinoiserie
Classic, modern furnishings lacquered like candy
Bold geometric patterns covering walls & floors
C. Wonder’s logo reinforced in every scale & form at every opportunity
Points of merchandising interest at every turn
Designer details, even in the restrooms!

Just add a BIG dollop of fun-house with a preppy accent to the above, and you’ll get the picture.

Interior Design, C. Wonder

You’re gonna love C. Wonder if you fall into any one of these categories:

Haute Dog
Artistic Hound
Fashion Hound
Shopping Hound
Interior Design Hound
Bargain Hunting Hound

Yes….I said Bargain Hunting Hound.

The average price at C. Wonder is $40!

Foo Dog Bookends $58 per Pair, C. Wonder.

Forty Bucks!

Chris Burch. The guy is the mistro of merchandising. Seriously.

Remember the preppy Eagle’s Eye label of clothing & sweaters? Chris Burch launched the brand with $2000 in college (1976) and eventually sold the brand for $60 million.

Not too shabby. And the guy likes Dogs.

So does the merchandising team at C. Wonder:

Bulldog Home Décor, C. Wonder

How flippin’ cute is that Puppy?

Here’s the best part…the adorable Bulldog porcelain dish is only $38.

Price for the embroidered Dog pillow cover? $34. Add another $10 if you need the pillow insert.

C. Wonder offers a kennel of Dogs including Beagles…

Dog Home Accessories, C. Wonder.

You’ll also find Pugs, Shih Tzus, Boxers and a few other Dogs running around the store.

Beagle Embroidered Pillow, C. Wonder.

C. Wonder is all about style and value.

Offering over 1600 SKU’s of delightful merchandise ranging from fashion to home accessories, you’re bound to find something wonderful for everyone on your gift list.

Want too see a peek at their merchandise selection? You’ll find a short video here.

Did I mention C. Wonder has colorful bicycles & Vespas in their collection?!

Scottie Dog Charm, C. Wonder.

Of course, I fancy all of the Pet products at the colorful store, from their colorful, non-slip Pet bowls to their Dog Collars & Leashes.

I think my Scottie Dog Taffy needs one of each of these colorful collars in her wardrobe, don’t you?

Designer Dog Collars, C. Wonder.

Notice the brilliant packaging. At a glance the colorful Dog lets you know the collar size.

No turning the Dog collar inside & out searching for a tag.

No reading the fine print.

It is just Bow-Wow-Wonderful!

Preppy Dog Collar & Lead, C. Wonder.

At $16, C. Wonder’s Dog Collars make the perfect gift for any Fashion Hound.

C. Wonder offers another element that’s difficult to find these days:

Spectacular service.

Or maybe I should call it spec-tech-ular!

There’s no need to leave the fitting room to fetch another size when you’ve got an intercom at your fingertips.

You can even control the lighting in the dressing rooms & select your own music.

How’s that for personal service?

So many retailers talk-the-talk when it comes to customer service, but C. Wonderful truly walks-the-walk!

Associates all carry hand-held devices that can ring you up anywhere in the store, so there’s no need to stand in line at the counter when you’re ready to make a purchase. Genius.

C. Wonder is the ultimate shopping experience.

Can’t wait for their online store to open. My guess?

It will be an experience too.

Later, I’ve got to let the Dog out,

The fact that my initials are “C” + “W” has nothing to do with my adoration for C. Wonder. ;) Check ‘em out when you’re in New York!

C. Wonder, 72 Spring Street at Crosby, New York

Top Scottie Dog Gifts for the Holidays

Cynthia — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 21:27:14 +0000

It’s that time of year…

Everyone is making a list & checking it twice.

Have you been naughty or nice?

If you’ve been good, maybe Santa will slip a pair of these stylish Scottie Dog slippers in your stocking…

How cool of a Yule would you have wearing these Puppies?

Scottie Dog Shoes. Image: Gump’s

Tell Santa to head over to Gump’s for the needlepoint slip-ons sporting a classic Scottie Dog silhouette. Fully lined in leather, the comfy slip-ons can be worn inside or out.

After retrieving the newspaper in your new slippers, wipe your paws on this festive Doggie door mat:

Holiday Doggie Door Mat. Image: Gump’s

Pillows are a quick way to dress up any room in the house.

How cute is this Holiday Scottie?

The needlepoint design is perfect when paired up with plaids, but the Dog is a stand out on its own any time of year.

Scottie Dog Pillow. Image: Williams-Sonoma

Here’s a designer secret: Decorating entails all of the senses, including the sense of smell.

There’s nothing worse than a home with an Eau de Dog scent, especially at the holidays!

Jeffery Banks has created scented Plaid Tidings Gift Sets, each with smart tartan packaging & a Scottie Dog label.

Scottie Dog Plaids. Image: Jeffery Banks HSN

They’re available in three different colors (red, yellow & green) and a variety of scents.

If you’ve been naughty this year, well…you’ve had all the fun.

You’ll also appreciate these:

Dog Christmas Ornaments. Image: Gump’s

Hmmmm. What little black Dog does this ornament remind me of?

The holidays are made for entertaining friends & family so after you’ve decked the halls, don’t forget the dinner table.

Dog Salt & Pepper Shakers. Image: Gump’s

Come on, it’s Christmas…get shaking!

Everything at Christmas doesn’t have to be new & shiny.

Vintage gifts & decorations can bring back fond memories of childhood and are especially cherished at the holidays.

Click around online. You’ll find loads of wonderful, vintage Dog-motif stocking stuffers.

Here are a few Scottie Dogs from one of my favorite sources: The Old Grey Mare. (You’ll find them here.)

Vintage Scottie Dogs. Image:Old Grey Mare

Licorice: like it, or not so much.

There’s no middle ground.

The exception? Scottie Dog Licorice. It’s too cute not to like!

Scottie Dog Licorice. Image: Vermont Country Store

No time to bake? Pick up several Scottie Dog shaped, Walker’s butter-rich shortbread cookies packed in a Scottie Dog tin.

Made in Scotland, they make a perfect gift for any Dog-lover on your list.

Did I mention Scots are thrifty? They’re under $20.

Scottie Dog Cookie Tin. Image: World Market

Prefer a cookie jar?

This little Scottie Dog cookie jar comes with cookies:

Scottie Dog Treat Jar. Image: Jeffery Banks, HSN.

What would the Holiday’s be without sugar plums dancing in our heads?

Okay, maybe not sugar plums, but how about this beautiful, bespoke English Dog Bed form Plush Pet Beds…

Yes, please!

Designer Dog Bed. Image: Plush Pet Beds, UK

Scottie Dogs Lily & Louis are loving their Gaddesby Sofa. (You’ll find it here.)

As “Head of Security” & “Head of Quality Control” for Plush Pet Beds, it looks like Dogs have it ruff in the UK.

Taffy made her list, have you?

Later, I’ve got to take the Dog out,

More Dog Gift Guides to come…

Calling All DOGS & Artistic Hounds from A to Z: Party in NYC!

Cynthia — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 20:17:59 +0000

You & your Dogs are invited to a party for Artistic Hounds in New York!

Robert Clarke Dog. Image: Rebecca Hossack

So grab your Dog’s best collar & leash and head over to the Rebecca Hossack Gallery this Wednesday (Novemeber 16^th) for the Pet-friendly celebration of:

The A- Z of DOGS…

A-Z of Dogs. Image: Rebecca Hossack

You’ll discover Dog paintings & prints ranging from Airedales to Zuchons created by the celebrated British Artist Robert Clarke.

Dogs Portrait. Image: Rebecca Hossack

The Artistic Hound is known for his series of Dog portraits, but this collection has a New York accent!

Yorkie Portrait. Image: Rebecca Hossack

Rob Clarke hasn’t always been a Dog-lover.

In fact, the artist used to be somewhat of a scaredy cat.

Pug Portrait. Image: Rebecca Hossack

At the impressionable age of 2 years old, Clarke had a run-in with a German Shepherd.

After the terrifying experience, Rob chose to avoid Dogs all together, no matter the breed.

Norwich Terrier. Image: Rebecca Hossack

It wasn’t until Clarke’s girlfriend persuaded him to get a Jack Russell Puppy in 2003 that his view of Dogs changed forever.

Jack Russell. Image: Rebecca Hossack

While attending Puppy training with his new Jack Russell, Clarke encountered lots of Dogs.

He met stocky Mastiffs and low-slung Bassets. There were plenty of pedigreed Pups and many Mutts.

Owners were encouraged to pass the Pups around for socialization…

Italian Greyhound. Image: Rebecca Hossack

The classes & the Jack Russell were life changing events for Rob Clarke and his artwork.

“You take the Dog to the park and you meet all sorts of fabulous people you wouldn’t come across every day…I was hooked…I started to draw and paint. It’s been a voyage of Canine discovery ever since.” Rob Clarke

Westie. Image: Rebecca Hossack

Clarke celebrates every Dog’s individuality & personality in his work.

Through a few strokes of his brush, Clarke manages to capture the characteristics & behavior of an amazing variety of Dogs.

You can even spot a Napoleon complex or two in his alphabet of Dogs…

Chihuahua Oil on Canvas. Image: Rebecca Hossack

While I’d never reveal the Dogs suffering from the complex, I’m sure you can guess.

The A-Z of Dogs New York Edition is sure to be a treat!

Here’s a personal invite for you & your four-legged friends:

Later, I’ve got to let the Dog out,

This isn’t the first time the Rebecca Hossack Gallery has gone to the Dogs.

Laurie Carroll, the Dog-loving director of the New York art gallery was my guest on Decorating Tails. You can find the Pet Life radio podcast here.

Vintage Dogs With Style: Russian Wolfhounds in Fashion & Hollywood

Cynthia — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 04:54:35 +0000

The Borzoi is a royal Style Hound.

Once called the Russian Wolfhound, Borzoi means “swift, light & agile.”

Those are exactly the qualities a fashionista needs to keep up with trends & styles of the day.

Borzois have managed to remain stylishly front & center for over a century in both the world of fashion & home décor.

Vintage Dog+ Dame Post Card. Image: IDH

Being a favorite Dog of royals no doubt helped the Borzoi remain popular in the decorative arts.

The Dogs reigned at kennels of the Russian Imperial family and swiftly found themselves at home in the Britsh Monarchy’s kennels at Sandringham. (More here.)

King Edward VII & Queen Alexandra were certainly fans of the Borzoi. So were the Duke and Duchess of Newcastle, who founded the Borzoi Club in England in 1892.

The Dog-loving Duchess of Newcastle bred Borzois and was said to have the largest and most successful kennel of the Dog breed outside of Russia.

In addtion to Queen Alexandra & the Duchess of Newcastle, Mrs. Borman of Billericay was a prominent Borzoi breeder at the turn of the century.

Borman’s Borzois. Image: IDH

I’d say Mrs. Borman was a Fashion Hound as well, wouldn’t you?

Borzoi Champion “Statesman.” Image: IDH

I’d love to see a Dog fancier trotting around the ring at Westmister wearing one of those chapeaus!

The fashionable elite adopted the aristicratic Dog. It became a four-legged symbol of style, grace & elegance.

Even yound Pups were paired up with the Borzoi for added panache…

Vinatge Dog Magazine Cover. Image: Firnsby

Fashions can be fleeting, but the faithful Borzoi always remains in style.

While the chic riding pants below might seem tame by today’s standards, the pants were ground breaking in 1918.

“The equestrian feels more and more that she is entitled to emancipation from the hampering, conventional riding skirt. For her new freedom the coutrier is creating happy combinations of style & comfort.”

Borzois Begging for a Ride. Image: IDH

Yep, the Borzoi witnessed women’s “new freedom” in the world of fashion.

Corsets were tossed and skirt hems begain to rise.

Parisians embraced the Russian Wolfhound on the pages of their most fashionable publications of the day.

Borzoi, La Guirlande, 1919. Image: Artophile

Edouard Blanche illustrated the latest Dobbs’ fashion in 1919 for La Guirlande magazine (above) with a white Borzoi by the model’s side.

In January of 1920, a Borzoi made an appearance on the cover of Femina magazine, complete with falling snow reflected in the mirror.

It seems everyone was enomoured with the Russian Wolfhounds in the 1920’s!

Femina Fashion Hound. Image: Finsbry

It wasn’t long before the Russian Woldhounds made their way to the the stage and screen.

The amazing Ballets Russes had great influence on the tastemakers of the day with their elaborate sets & costumes from 1909-1929.

In 1919, the Ballet Russes dancer Maria Kuznetsova appeared in La Légende de Saint Joseph attended by servants, “two of whom had a couple of honey-colored Wolfhounds on white leads.”

The Moulin Rouge featured bejeweld Borzois…

Moulin Rouge Dogs. Image: Museums Galleries

In the States, Ziegfeld Follies beauties would strut across the stage with the sophisticated Borzois on fashionable leashes.

The Hounds made it to Hollywood when actress Norma Shearer drummed up publicity for MGM in November 1926 with this Russian style photo…

Hollywood Wolfhound . Image: Regency

Norma Shearer appeared in Photoplay magazine and their caption said it best:

All dressed up for a snowstorm in California: Norma Shearer and two Russian Wolfhounds who are a long way from home. The Russian influence in fashion is great, if like this lady, you are beautiful enough to get away with it.

And then there was this tinseltown production:

MGM’s Zeigfeld Borzois. Image: youtube

The 1936 MGM movie The Great Zeigfeld.

Yep, it featured 6, very well-trained Russian Wolfhounds in an extravagent dance number starring Harriet Hoctor.

Only in Hollywoof! You can watch it here.

Later, I’ve got to let the Dog out,

High Point Hounds, Vintage Dogs, Antique Borzoi & Regal Russian Wolfhounds

Cynthia — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 05:51:23 +0000

I spotted this pair of beautiful Borzoi Dogs at the Antique & Design Center in Market Square at the recent High Point Market.

The Dogs were guarding a beautiful painted piece of furniture from Luisana Designs and Antiques.

Borzoi Statues, Luisana Designs & Antiques

Antique & Design Center, High Point. Image: IDH

I had a hot flash when I laid eyes on them.

They were To-Die-For. Seriously.

The regal Hounds, circa 1909, were special in every way. (Note the red sticker Karen Luisana slapped on those Puppies. *Sigh* They were sold.)

Just take a look at the drool-worthy Dog Collars the elegantly turned out Fashion Hounds were wearing:

Borzoi Beauty. Image: Interior Design Hound

To. Die. For! If you’re a regular reader, you know how much this Interior Design Hound covets Dog Collars.

These collars were especially show-stopping with their faux-stones, jewels & wonderful finish that can only be aquired with time & wear.

Borzois have such a refined & sophisticated style, its hard to imagine they were fierce wolve hunters, isn’t it?

While often associated with the Art Deco period, the Hounds were fashionable long before.

King of Hunting Dogs. Image: Borzois

N.A. Martynnow, a prominent artist & draftsman durning the reign of Nicholas I, imortalized the Borzoi in a series of 28 etchings from 1874-1879.

The Dog portraits, all owned by members of the Russian Imperial family & prominent Russians of the day, were originally exhibited by the Imperial Society of Russian’s Royal Court.

King of Hunting Dogs. Image: Borzois

In 1934, a Russian born American reproduced 300 portfolios featuring the Dog portraits, bearing the Imperial Crest of the of the House of Romanav.

I spotted three of the beautiful Borzoi Dog prints at the Antique & Design Center in Market Square in the booth of Stanley Antiques & Fine Art while at High Point.

Borzoi Prints. Image: Heirloom Philosphy

Stanley Antiques & Fine Art proved you can make classic Dog prints look fresh + modern with the right framing. The Borzois were mounted in silver, floating frames.

If you’re looking to make a serious Dog design statement, the dealer has a total of 23 of the Russian Borzoi prints!

Measuring in at 18″ x 24” framed, you could cover an entire wall with the art prints. You’ll find them here.

The Borzoi was a favorite of British Royalty, too:

Image: Noble Hounds and Dear Companions

Thomas Fall Dog Photo, Late 1890’s.

The Princess of Wales (later Queen Alexandra) is pictured above with her Dog Alex. The Borzoi was presented to her in 1895 from the Tzar’s Kennels, via A. J. Rousseau.

Royal Borzoi,1902. Image: Interior Design Hound

While Alex is the most well-known Borzoi belonging to Queen Alexandra, it was Vassilka who achieved Champion status.

Vassilka, a Borzoi born in 1902, was a gift from Tsar Alexander III and Tsarina Maria Feodorovina (Queen Alexandra’s sister).

King Edward VII commissioned a silver model of the Champion Borzoi from the workshop of Fabergé in 1907.

Fabergé Borzoi. Image: Noble Hounds

King Edward VII & Queen Alexandra were Dog-lovers, having established the kennels at Sandringham in 1876.

The painting Queen Alexandra with her Grandchildren and Dogs shows the Queen outside of the kennels at Sandringham in 1902 surrounded by a variety of Dogs, including the Borzoi Alex.

Painted by Fred Morgan and Thomas Blinks, you’ll note three Grandchildren including Prince Edward*, who is holding a whip. (*Duke of Windsor, abdicated the throne for Wallis Simpson)

A print of the painting was availble free of charge according to this advertisement from 1902:

Queen Alexandra Dog Print 1902, IDH.

I’ve never come across the Queen Alexandra with her Grandchildren and Dogs “free” print, have you?

It was said that the Queen knew the names of all the Dogs in the Royal Kennels at Sandringham.

She found great joy in giving each one of her four-legged friends a royal treat.

Sandringham Dog Treats, 1902. Image: IDH

Just like us, the Queen knew her Dogs would always be happy to greet her…especially if she had treats!

Later, I’ve got to let the Dogs out,

More on Borzoi style & influenence on the world of design to come…stay tuned.

Do you have an interesting vintage or antique Dog item you’d like to share? Drop me a line, I’d love to see it.