Pulse Products | Hot Commodities

Hot Commodities July 2012

Author: Long Island Pulse | Published: Monday, June 25, 2012

Decorative but Deadly
The monkey’s fist, named for its resemblance to a clasped pair of primate hands, began as a sailor’s tool to add weight to the end of a line for easier, more controlled throwing. The knot can be tied around objects like cannonballs or stones for added heft, allowing sailors to toss ropes from ship to wharf even in extreme wind. Over time, these intricate knots made their way from boat decks to living rooms as nautical decorations. (A 1942 article in The Christian Science Monitor tells readers to find library books with monkey’s fist instructions “to aid the landlubber in fashioning…sailors’ knots into personal and household pieces that, in addition to decorative or utilitarian value, are vested with the aura of man’s progress down the pathway of time.”) Beautiful as these decorative knots are, it is considered a felony to carry one concealed on your person. Monkey’s fists tied around heavy objects, known as “slungshots,” were commonly used as weapons and were outlawed in New York in 1912 under the same statute that outlaws brass knuckles.

Hot Commodities June 2012

Author: Long Island Pulse | Published: Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Fresh Start
Certainly you’ve heard about “bringing the outdoors in” and vice versa. Throw pillows are the simple answer when wondering “how to.” These easy accessories can give a facelift to any couch, hammock, ship’s bow or swing. Using exotic textiles—like fine kilims, which have been taking center stage in home décor—will add an unpredictable twist to your home. The tight weaves and quirky patterns of these artisan handicrafts inject an inviting feeling into a space, while also lending a sense of history and intimacy. Find these featured cushions among the 200 varieties carried by Custom Cool (Quogue). Each creation is entirely handmade and composed of only the finest materials. Best of all, each piece is created in Kashmir to the highest ethical standards possible, using no child labor. 631.996.2900, customcoolrugs.com.

Objects of Desire - Cozy up to warm nights at home

Photos: Graham Lott Words: Roxanne Deiter

Author: Rox Taylor | Published: Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Autumn Fire
As the evenings cool, and contemplation sets with the shadows, retiring to a cozy corner is hardly a retreat. Whether alone or with compelling company, engaging in the warmth of a private hearth and slowing your mood to the circling of smoke dangling in the air is a brilliant time for reflection. Cigar culture never goes out of style and neither does investing in stately accoutrements steeped in the culture of Havana. Family-owned and operated London Jewelers (Manhasset) caters to those whose tastes are refined, but far from stuffy. Black “Havana” ashtray, $495, blue and gold round cigar punch, $355, black lacquered Dupont lighter, $1,225, stainless steel black flask, $50, Ché Guevera leather cigar case, $1,615, orange sycamore Alba humidor, $2,850, ebony 8x10 frame, $295, platinum “scales” 5x7 frame, $130, are just the beginning of their lush indulgences.

Cozy & Luxurious
Personal accessories that are luxurious and refined add importance to your most precious memories. Acclaimed fashion jewelry designer, Jay Strongwater, whose early designs were often paired with Oscar de la Renta, continues producing picture frames as beautiful as the memories they hold. Each frame is a work of art—designed, modeled, cast, plated and enameled by hand before final stones, crystals and paints are added. Shown here are 5x7 plaid, $1,900, 4x6 argyle, $895, and 3x4, $395, from the Highland collection. Inspire new thoughts and record other memories with leather fineries from Long Island-based Graphic Image. Shown here (L-R): 3x5 brown crocodile jotter w/ 24 note cards, $40, purple cayman python iPad sleeve, $125, mini envelope (shown as business card holder) in pink cayman python, $40, and iPhone case in turquoise goatskin, $48. Graphic Image is a leading supplier to quality retailers (like Bergdorf Goodman), but discerning clients may shop them direct online where endless hues, finishes and gilded pages can be found. (graphicimage.com). Montblanc cool blue pen, $460, at London Jewelers. Chocolate, herb & spice, and coffee companions in mocha, lime and taupe goatskin, $75 each by Graphic Image.

Oenophiles
Bragging rights are the domain of those whose tastes are so exquisite, experiences so vast and opinions so indisputable, they are unassailable. Hence the difference between one who dabbles and the true connoisseur. Indulging in tools of the trade that herald the passion of the possessor are simply par for the course. No matter what the vintage, this wood bottle holder gift set ($65, London Jewelers), is the perfect vessel. A professional Wine Reference in garnet goatskin featuring information on wine regions, cellars, vineyards, terminology and pronunciation guide plus maps ($65, Graphic Image) and companion Wine Journal in brown crocodile print leather to document personal experiences, tabbed by country, including editorial on varietals ($37, Graphic Image) harmonize the encounter.

Write On
Thoughtful moments are made all the more intimate when penned personally on fine stationary. Bernard Maisner is hailed for creative hand lettering for film and television (that was his impeccable scrolling in The Age of Innocence), as well as his unique work in manuscripts, greeting cards and illuminated pages. His tabletop collections continue to be sought after by countless luminaries. The latest in his personal stationary line includes this Love Knot folder card and envelope, $80 at London Jewelers, celebrating the symbol of eternal true love. Complete your thoughts with the most poignant “swords,” by Montblanc (carbon steel solitaire pen, $690, black solitaire rollerball, $650) and keep it all together with Agate bookends ($100), all available at London Jewelers. Leathers are the perfect autumn accessory and this Merriam-Webster’s dictionary in lime crocodile print leather w/thumb tabs ($174) and 5x7 weekly datebook in yellow goatskin w/gilt edges ($60) are available through Graphic Image in a variety of colors. Publisher’s antique Egyptian quill holder and ink well n/a.