Vintage boxes

Recently we came across some pretty 20th Century Vintage Boxes. Some of which are pretty unusual in their shape and are quite unique! Here are just some of the fantastic boxes we found ...

This Fuller's Chocolate Box was quite difficult to find information on; luckily we found a similar item - the boxes made by Wallis & Manners Ltd in the 1930's.

The next box appears to be a handmade jewelry box. Possibly made between the 1930's - 1950's. It has a lovely pattern and shape to it.

Yardley Soap London started back in the 17th Century when the Yardley family received a grant from King Charles the 1st to manufacture soap for the people of London. The first Yardley London Soap Perfume was made using Lavendar. Soap at the time was a representative of Windsor Castle, as the first soap created by Yardley. More varieties were to follow later on, such as the Yardley Verbena Leaf Bath Soap which we also happen to have in our collection.

Terrarium Lanterns

Hi All!

Our weather may not exactly be inspiring us to get out into the garden at the moment! However, here at Martin Hudson & Gibson we have these lovely lead framed terrarium lanterns in stock; which can be used as ornamental pieces or alternatively provide a unique environment for plants...a trend that was popular in the Victorian era.

Suitable for either indoor or outdoor use, these geometric terrariums feature antique glass and are approximately 30 - 40 years old.

Here at Martin Hudson & Gibson we've added some artificial flowers as an example of what can be done. Why not try adding candles...changing the colour of the candles depending on the season? Or you could try turning them into attractive lamps or wall lights if you're feeling adventurous?

Whether you decide to place them indoors or out, these decorative lanterns will make a charming addition to any space...

Happy Vintage Wednesday!

- Angela Lowth

Tosca

Hello again! and Happy Vintage Wednesday! Once again, while exploring our store, I have come across another spectacular find! This time, a rare fabric by Designer Pierre Balmain. This vibrant, 100% cotton specimen was created by the designer exclusively for Fardis Designs in 1986. It flashes red, gold, fuchsia, and plumb, while depicting an image of layered swags and tails. Detailed, gold tassels and trims line the layers of the printed swags, making the fabric appear to have depth and texture. 

Looking at this fabric one may find it hard to believe that furnishing fabric design was not Balmain's main endeavour. The late Balmain studied architecture in Paris, was part of the French Air Force, and became a freelance sketch artist for Robert Piguet. He then grew to become the founder/director, Maison Balmain, in Paris, and Balmain Fashions, in New York. He has become one of the most well known fashion designers in the world. Balmain believed "dressmaking is the architecture of movement." His mission, as he saw it, was ''to beautify the world like an architect''. This idea is seen throughout his designs, and even relates to this specific fabric. 

Pop by Martin Hudson and Gibson to see what else you can find in our store :)

-Jordan Galuppi

Peony Gardens

This is my 4th month working with John at Martin Hudson and Gibson. Everyday, I discover fabulous treasures in our store. Today, as I was browsing through our archives, I stumbled across an alluring fabric; Peony Gardens from the Jasmine and Jade Collection, made by Greeff for Warner and Sons. Greeff, an American based designer, travelled worldwide seeking inspiration for all of his designs. Through his career, he brought out two collections a year, with this specific one dating back to the 1980's. Beautiful greens and blues with splashes of orange mix perfectly to create the organic pattern on this 100% cotton fabric. Searching further, I dusted off another stash, finding a meticulously stitched tablecloth from the same era, in a second colour wave of the Peony Gardens fabric. Pleated and piped, this tablecloth would have once covered a round chip board table. All the rage of the 80's! Come on in to see more of the beautiful vintage fabrics we have (and are still discovering!) in our store. 

- Jordan Galuppi