the Otherist

Treasured Goods: Digby & Iona

2011-06-04T05:23:00.000-07:00

As a result of repeated childhood viewings of Raiders of the Lost Ark and The Goonies, the concept of jewelry has always been inextricably linked with that of treasure. And while it's not fair, when viewing new work we'd be lying if we said that in the back of our collective mind we weren't - at least subconsciously - looking for items that fulfill this criteria. We don't just want 'pretty', we want something special; a prize that rekindles all those feelings of romance and excitement that are the hallmarks of any great treasure hunt.

In a heady mix of inspiration that includes but is not limited to history, literature, nature, and his own childhood fantasies of exploration, Aaron Ruff's Digby & Iona jewelry is a beautiful embodiment of the romance and adventure wrapped up in the deceptively simple word 'treasure'.

Lovers of 20,000 Leagues under the sea will be suckers for the incredible octopus ring, and for the Louis L'Amour fans among you (we know you're out there) we have the Law in Six Parts locket; a brass and oxidized silver book that opens to reveal a removable revolver. And to sweeten the pot - if the pot was in need of sweetening - his collection is not just for the ladies; it also boasts pieces for men such as the incredible oxidized silver stump ring with contrasting brass tree rings - the perfect piece for that very special pirate in your life, be he a One-Eyed Willie or a Bluebeard.

We've updated most of the available pieces in our webshop, and all pieces are available for viewing and purchase at our shop on the Leliegracht. See you soon!

Classic Style: Billykirk

2011-04-06T14:26:00.000-07:00

Why does it seem that travel has lost all the glamour of the old days? Sure, maybe by 'the old days' I mean 'in old movies', but still. One night while watching an old classic on television (ok, it was Some Like it Hot with Marilyn Monroe and Tony Curtis - amazing) I realized as I watched them boarding the train that everyone had these amazing bags and fantastic luggage!

It's no wonder that getting on the train nowadays feels so gauche, as we walk around with our interchangeable nylon backpacks and duffel bags that are really more suited to carrying smelly gym shoes than nice clothing for a weekend in Paris. (I can't even put into writing how I feel upon realizing that the person across the aisle is in their pajamas and slippers and has the pillow from their bed tucked under their arm like a favorite teddy bear. Really? Have a little pride, man.)

While we can't convince Thalys to implement a dress code or even train the stewards to mix us a real drink, we can lose the banal backpacks and dreary duffels - and the new bags from Billykirk are just the thing to replace them. New fabrics for Spring & Summer include an olive herringbone twill combined ivy leather and a railroad stripe canvas paired slate leather, all made using the time-honored traditions and high quality materials that we've come to expect from Billykirk. I have my eyes on the olive weekender, leaving me with only one question; am I going over the top if I buy the wallet to match? Available online in our webshop and also in our brick & mortar shop on the Leliegracht.

Superior Finery: Henderson Dry Goods

2011-03-31T05:01:00.001-07:00

For those of you who have visited our brick and mortar shop, it should come as no surprise that we love combining the old with the new; nothing sets off a beautiful piece of handmade porcelain like an old industrial table, and what better way to store or display jewelry than old archive drawers lined with velvet? You can also see this juxtaposition of old and new in the work of many of our vendors; from the exquisite specimen sculptures of InsectLab to the timeless design and craftsmanship that is so apparent in the accessories from Billykirk.

We're extremely excited to introduce a new addition to our collection; the beautiful wooden & silver jewelry of Henderson Dry Goods.

Combining classic Victorian aesthetics with modern production methods, Alex Henderson carefully crafts each piece in her small backyard studio. Working almost exclusively with walnut and sterling silver, the delicacy of each piece belies the inherent strength of the wood, combining to create a unique and durable piece of jewelry to treasure without worry.

While we love all the pieces in this collection, if someone were to force us to choose a favorite, we would have to admit that we're madly in love with the portrait pendants. Likenesses of memorable figures from the past are further immortalized in an etched walnut relief and then backed with oxidized sterling silver... and while we hesitate to say they make great conversation pieces, it's only because when it comes to our jewelry, we prefer compliments to convos. You can see our collection in the webshop or come by our shop on the Leliegracht to see them in person.

iBride - Le Boudoir

2010-10-15T04:21:00.000-07:00

We've always been fans of animalia, whether that be old school minotaurs and harpies, or more (semi-) current incarnations like Perlman's tragic Beast fighting for ill-fated love (Ron Perlman, not Rhea!). These decorative serving trays from iBride are no exception, rather they're glowing examples of the hybridization that we love so well.

The designers at iBride call this collection Le Boudoir, and while these five feather-headed friends are not bowerbirds, they're the perfect birds for decorating your bower. Each image is a lovingly captured and intimate portrait in the boudoir-style that will prove, without a doubt, that birds can indeed, have bedroom eyes. Guaranteed to satisfy whether you're an ornithologist, period-drama lover, or just love people with animal heads. Check them out in our webshop or come by our Leliegracht shop to see in person

Beetle & Flor, Porcelain Skulls

2010-10-08T03:24:00.000-07:00

One of the highlights of being a shopkeeper has got to be receiving a shipment of new products. No matter how many times we do it, pulling open the lid of each box brings back much of the excitement of that first present on Christmas morning. While we may not be in our pajamas and there is rarely hot cocoa in attendance, the feeling is much the same as we brush away the packing peanuts to discover anew what goodies have arrived. I know, I know - yes, we ordered it and already have a good idea of what we'll be getting, but the excitement of Christmas morning was never subdued just because we had peeked in our parent's closets a few weeks before the happy day... and we're operating on the same principle here.

As far as these packages go, we have to say that one of the recent highlights has been receiving a new line of products from Beetle & Flor. You're probably already aware of our predilection for porcelain objet, so when pulling these carefully wrapped porcelain items out of their protection we were in absolute heaven. Cast from life by Christine Facella (a freelance illustrator for the American Museum of Natural History), the porcelain skulls are lovingly handmade and exquisitely finished, each with its own character and attributes.

We haven't coveted anything this intensely since that tantalizingly tentacled pewter octopus from Swallow! While there's no question that one will be taking up permanent residence in our home, there is the question of choice: do we choose the deer skull with antlers that can just as easily grace our wall as our table, or the beaver that rocks gold teeth harder and better than any wannabe "grill" wearer? See our current collection in our webshop or at our shop on the Leliegracht. Female deer and gold-toothed male deer coming soon!

Pearl & Marmalade Letterpress, Antique Wooden Letters

2010-06-21T04:44:00.000-07:00

When picking a card to give someone, regardless of the occasion, we try to be extremely careful not to go too far down the cutesy route. The sheer amount of saccharin-sweet pussycats sleeping on dogs, or hiding in a toilet paper roll, or telling you to 'hang in there' is mind-numbing -- one begins to build up a tolerance for higher and higher amounts of this sweet stuff that normally would make your teeth hurt. Before you know it, you begin thinking that ducklings playing with kittens is 'edgy', that Garfield saying 'LASAGNA' is funny, and that cartoons of unhappy women with breasts sagging down to their knees is a perfectly acceptable - even funny - birthday card.

So we felt a bit like the legendary (albeit fictional) explorer Alan Quatermain unearthing some fabulous treasure when we discovered Pearl & Marmalade's distinctive line of letterpress cards and prints. Combining old-world style illustrations with a modern-day aesthetic, these cards turn baby announcements and birthday wishes into miniature pieces of hand-printed art, imbued with a sophistication born from the time-honored process used to create them.

As a matter of fact, the more study we did of what goes into making letterpress cards, the more enthralled we were with the process. So much so that when we found a few batches of 19th century letterpress letters available, we pounced on them like a polar bear on a seal pup. Containing a variety of fonts, letters, numbers and punctuation marks, digging through these antique wooden letters has become the thing to do when visiting the shop. Whether poring through them searching for a name, address, a good size "X" to rest one's coffee cup on, or just to hear the satisfying 'clickety-clack' as they rub together, we have to wonder just how long we'll be able to keep these pups in stock. We've made a portion of our Pearl & Marmalade collection available in our webshop, as for the letters, you'll have to come by the shop to see for yourself.

**Disclaimer: the Otherist takes no responsibilty for 19th century printing ink rubbing off on curious fingers. ☺

Insect Lab, the return...

2010-06-08T03:24:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that if there was a fire in the shop, and I was forced to save only a small number of items, first on my list would be these incredible pieces from artist Mike Libby. After what felt like eons of fantasizing on my part, last year we started stocking them in the shop, and happily our appreciation for these stunning, intricately modified specimens was shared by our customers. So much so that we are happy to announce a batch of new arrivals!

Along with replacements for the popular bumblebee and dragonfly, we also have three new beetles that have to be seen to be believed. As ever, the skill, creativity, and careful workmanship of Mr. Libby leaves me awestruck and salivating for more, like some character from one of J. R. R. Tolkien's tomes -- Smaug or Gollum, I'm unsure which. Am I the dragon, jealously guarding my horde of treasures while wearing too much in the way of jewelry? or a sad, obsessed, bug-eyed mutant who can't bear to let go of my 'Precious'? ... Or perhaps I'm just over-sharing? (...yes, I'm a nerd)

See our collection in the webshop - but to truly appreciate them, come check them out in person at our shop on the Leliegracht.

billykirk - Wallets, Card Holders, Wrist Straps

2010-04-09T06:09:00.001-07:00

I'm afraid that I'm a child of my times in that, when thinking of the Amish, the first thing that springs to mind is Harrison Ford in the movie 'Witness'. Followed closely by thoughts of furniture, of course. So once one is able to banish all thoughts of Harrison Ford (just thinking about the last Indiana Jones movie does the trick), generally all thoughts of the Amish turn to their extraordinary craftsmanship, a craftsmanship that is all the more admirable in light of their unwillingness to rely on modern shortcuts or machines, and also their belief in the beauty of simple yet well made goods.

The brothers of Billykirk share this passion for well-made goods and a timeless aesthetic, and have been designing and working leather in time-honored traditions since 1999. With the assistance of a small group of Amish leather workers they create beautiful leather goods whose quality is apparent in every hand finished stitch and (often vintage sourced) piece of hardware. Billykirk uses only the highest quality domestic or Italian leathers that have been vegetable dyed in the tradition of the Old West, a process that is not only better for the environment but lends itself so well to their designs because of its durability and how it changes and ages over time. The brothers even invite customers to share images of their Billykirk items after they've been 'personalized', and quite frankly from some of the images I've seen, it makes me all the more eager to get that wallet in my back pocket and start doing some 'personalizing'. See our assortment of wallets, card cases, and wristbands in the webshop or stop by our shop on the Leliegracht to see/feel them in person.

Gelukspopjes - Annemoon van Steen

2010-04-02T02:56:00.000-07:00

When considering a good luck charm, one might possibly go the obvious route: the left-hind leg of a rabbit, shot with a silver bullet by a cross-eyed man in a graveyard on a Friday (as any student of North-American lore can tell you, any other rabbit's foot is just a useless part from a most likely dead animal, having no supernatural powers whatsoever!). You could search a field for a lucky clover or even hang a horseshoe in your doorway - like a "U" of course, because upside down all the luck runs out.   But here's the thing: all these charms are just so.... typical. So mundane, so run-of-the-mill, so ordinaire.

So when we saw Annemoon van Steen's Gelukspopjes ('Good Luck Dolls' in Dutch) we knew we'd found just the thing. Each doll is one of a kind, handmade by Annemoon herself, with arms and legs sculpted from clay then painted. Each doll has a model number, 'date of birth', and luck category. The perfect companion for hard times and dull rooms. A few are available in the webshop or stop by the Leliegracht to peruse our full collection.

Scott Musgrove - The Late Fauna of Early North America

2010-02-15T04:47:00.000-08:00

My 6-year old self always took pride in his vocabulary, and positively glowed when an adult recognized my precocious parlance. I loved being able to use my most treasured word when said adult invariably asked me what I would like to be when I grew up; "paleontologist". Sure, there might have been a slight lisp, and every once in a while I might have reversed a vowel or two, but regardless it was sure to get a reaction. The best reactions always came on my birthday when the telltale weight of heavy, rectangular presents revealed themselves to be books replete with full color illustrations of Dinosaurs and other Megafauna of our world's earlier days.

Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon said "Whatever was possible for Nature to produce, has actually been produced", and in those early, heady days of new discovery it certainly seemed that way to me. But time has a way of stealing the luster from discoveries of our youth, and it's not for nothing that 'familiarity breeds contempt' maintains its freshness as an idiom long after other idioms have become just as extinct as the dinosaurs from my old books. So imagine my joy upon discovering Scott Musgrove's pseudo-scientific (tongue held firmly in cheek) tome The Late Fauna of Early North America, 'Featuring many Depictions of Hitherto Undiscovered and Now Extinct Animals, Creatures, and Other Beasts." Filled with drawings, paintings, and images of sculptures all rendered in loving detail by Musgrove in his hauntingly humorous signature style, this satisfying hardcover brings back the magic of discovery and the thrill of possibility that even when we've plumbed the depths of the earth around us completely, there are still the endless and oft unexplored strata of our imaginations. Available in our web shop or stop by the Leliegracht and peruse in person.

The Tree Show & Fushigi Circus

2010-02-10T03:03:00.000-08:00

"The tree that moves some to tears of joy is in the eyes of others only a green thing that stands in the way... some scarce see nature at all, but to the eyes of the man of imagination, nature is imagination itself." - William Blake

Of course I borrowed that directly from The Tree Show book itself - I mean, I love to do research as much as the next guy, but c'mon, to get a quote this apropos? I can't help but think it's more than just a happy coincidence that it could just as easily be regarding art as nature; the whole 'beauty in the eye of the beholder' vibe is just too clear to be ignored. And in a lot of ways I feel that this literal-ambiguity-yet-clear-sentiment mirrors the work of Ryden himself. The visual vocabulary used by Mark Ryden is filled with plush pets, virginal vixens, religious iconography, alchemical symbols and slabs of meat painstakingly rendered against a backdrop of primordial, Arcadian splendor. In the Tree Show he skillfully weaves together images of the cute and cuddly, the stately and striking, to create bittersweet canvases that manage to celebrate nature at the same time they mourn its loss.

And since more of a good thing is always better, for those of you not satisfied with just one Mark Ryden monograph we also have the deliciously disturbing Fushigi Circus, a survey of 55 of of Ryden's most impressive works from past shows to the present. This gorgeous hardcover is clothbound and sure to be a treasured gem in any art lover's collection. Both available in our webshop or come by the Leliegracht to peruse them in person.

Deux Filles en Fil - leather goodness

2010-01-07T04:48:00.000-08:00

Direct from Maine-et-Loire in Western France come the beautiful bags of Deux Filles en Fil, or 'Two Girls and Thread'.

Using surplus leather from the fashion industry to reduce waste and local know-how from an area known for its textile and leather industries, the women from Deux Filles en Fil have created a line of bags that is ethical, practical, and beautiful.

Each bag is hand crafted from a single, flat piece of leather that folds and snaps to create sturdy and classic bag designs that are stylish, versatile and durable. Come by the Leliegracht to check out our assortment or see our webshop.

Suzanne Norris - Curiosity Cabinet

2009-12-30T03:31:00.000-08:00

If you're at all familiar with the Otherist, then you know we're madly in love with Cabinets of Curiosities. One might even say that Ye Olde Worlde Wunderkammers are one of our biggest inspirations when we go in search of new items with which to populate the shop. So it should come as no surprise that when one of our customers clued us in to Suzanne Norris' amazing new screen print Curiosity Cabinet we quite literally jumped at the chance to have this amazing work in the shop.

This print houses a collection of meticulously drawn two-dimensional specimens, perfect for the avid amateur scientist, art lover, or biology fanatic.

The deets:
- limited edition of 28 pieces
- Incisioni paper (220gsm, pH neutral, 50% cotton)
- The print measures w 39.9cm x h 47cm (15.7” x 18.5”)
- The paper measures w 50cm x h 59cm (19.7” x 23.2”)
- one colour non-toxic water-based ink (velvety black) silk screen print

Available for purchase in-store at our Leliegracht location or in our web shop.

Pictorial Webster's

2009-12-28T04:33:00.000-08:00

Prior to the instant gratification of the world-wide web (we ♥ U Wikipedia!), the best place to find the weird and wonderful was the unabridged Webster's Dictionary. Even before the wonders of wordplay made themselves known, this repository of knowledge was guaranteed to be packed to the gills with meticulous engravings of the world around us (in addition to the copious amounts of words). Whether the item pictured was easily seen, unseen, or out of reach of anything but our imaginations, something about these intricate images sparked a fire in the heart of young scientists and artists alike.

In Pictorial Webster's: A Visual Dictionary of Curiosities, John M. Carrera has undertaken the arduous task of not only tracking down more than 1,500 amazing 19th-century engravings from Webster's Dictionaries, but also cleaning and restoring them to provide a visually breathtaking collection sure to both inspire and delight. With images ranging from Acorns to Zebras, Bell Jars to Velocipedes, this chunky tome "is a treasure trove for art lovers, designers, and anyone with an interest in visual history." When we first saw this book, there was no question: Yes, MUST have! This chunky little tome is chock full of drool-worthy graphical goodness. Available for purchase in our web shop or come by the Leliegracht and thumb through it in person.

Shadow of Lula - Kyoko Hashimoto

2009-10-16T04:38:00.000-07:00

From Kyoko Hashimoto's Shadow of Lula collection, this limited edition pendant is a beautiful twist on traditionally somber mourning jewelry. Each pendant depicts the silhouette of an extinct insect species hung from a long adjustable brass chain. Using both traditional and modern techniques, Kyoko has carefully hand crafted subtle layers of beauty and depth that have become time capsules in memory of the tiny lives that no longer inhabit the earth.

Each pendant is produced in a limited edition of 30 pieces and has both the name of the insect as well as the edition number on the reverse side. See available pieces in the webshop, or stop by the Leliegracht to see them in person.

ADAM&EVE - Aleksandra Wisniewska

2009-09-21T03:02:00.000-07:00

Collecting and pressing plant specimens has always been a great way to preserve snippets of nature's beauty. Swiss designer Aleksandra Wisniewska has taken this age-old activity one step further, not just preserving the leaves, but transforming them into subtly intricate pendants that evince nature while transforming it into something wholly different.

Aleksandra's technique preserves each leaf creating a distinct filigree effect in which the veins of each leaf are revealed to accentuate the delicate structure. Each sterling silver pendant is as unique as nature can make it, each leaf donated by a generous oak, magnanimous olive tree, or bountiful rose bush. See available pieces in our webshop or drop by the Leliegracht and see them in person!

Lyndie Dourthe - Curiosités Under Glass

2009-08-27T03:41:00.000-07:00

There was always something infinitely and uncomfortably attractive about walking into biology class and seeing the specimens arrayed in all their yellowed, formaldehyde-y glory. The salamanders, birds and other beasts almost made the teacher's interminable lectures bearable. Almost.

So it's to be expected that our eyes were drawn like lead filings to a magnet (gratuitous science class reference!) when we first happened upon Lyndie Dourthe's Curiosités Under Glass. Hand stitched, beaded, and burned encyclopedia illustrations on stuffed canvas guaranteed to turn any 'ews' into 'aahs'; displayed under removable glass to facilitate admiration both with eyes and hands. See available pieces in our webshop.

Insect Lab

2009-08-09T04:37:00.000-07:00

"Gentlemen, we can rebuild him. We have the technology. We have the capability to build the world's first bionic man. Steve Austin will be that man. Better than he was before. Better, stronger, faster."

Oh, Steve Austin. Sure, our parents' generation had Bonanza and Rawhide defining what it was to be a man; that rugged, horse-riding Marlborough Man of a man, tough when he had to be and gentle only to his mama, with calloused hands and weathered features. Thankfully by the time I rolled out and around, Lee Majors was already running around in that red tracksuit with a sound effect that none of us who watched the show will ever forget and were most likely emulating on the playground (dje-je-je-je-je-je!!!).

One of my first imperatives was the acquisition of the Bionic Man Doll (sorry folks, Action figures, for all their impressive accessories, are still dolls), featuring the amazing roll-back skin on his arm that revealed the 'bionic' components beneath, and don't even get me started on how amazing it was that you could look through the back of his head and see via his 'bionic eye'.

It's funny (ha ha) how much childhood obsessions carry through into adulthood. When I first saw Mike Libby's Insect Lab specimens my eyes widened, my jaw dropped, and the same sense of excitement filled my stomach as the first time I saw the Bionic Man in his box. And I'm afraid that while the Bionic Man will always have the nostalgia factor behind him, these amazing specimens put my old doll to shame.

Borrowing from science fiction and fact, Insect Lab customizes real insect specimens with antique watch parts and other technological components. From ladybugs to grasshoppers, each is individually hand adorned, and original- a unique celebration of the contradictions and confluences between nature and technology. The pieces aren't intended to function, but playfully and slyly insist that they could. For me the most difficult time will be when I have to relinquish the illusion that they're mine and watch as some lucky customer takes them home. See the available pieces listed in our webshop

the Otherist

2009-08-03T03:34:00.000-07:00

Fledglings leave the nest, puppies are weaned, and children move out of their parents' houses (or should). Realizing that change brings new challenges and rewards, we here at egg mercantile have decided it's time for us to hatch into something different. Happily, not every metamorphosis has to be as brutal or depressing as Kafka's - on the contrary, we're as excited as a fuzzy caterpillar about to break free of the cocoon and spread its wings for the first time. Don't fear, friends and neighbors, we'll still be and have all the great things you've already come to associate with egg mercantile; stunning ceramics, wonderful wool, beautiful bags, wicked wallets and other hard to find treasures that refuse to fall prey to my articulate alliteration. So we continue turning a blind eye to the standard; to the run-of-the-mill; to the mundane and the typical. We want only the exceptional; the memorable; the unconventional; the other.

We're changing our name to reflect this continued focusing of our collection towards merchandise that is anything but ordinary, so effective immediately egg mercantile will be transforming into The Otherist. We also hope that the name change will help clear things up for passersby who just read the sign or those who hear our name in polite conversation. Because in answer to the questions that were on far too many people's lips; no, we do not sell eggs. Nor do we sell everything to do with eggs. Or chickens. No, you can't have yours scrambled sir, and no, ma'am, you cannot have yours poached. And no, 'egg mercantile' is not a special brunch dish or something you can order at the Chinese takeaway.

Looking forward to seeing you either in the shop or online at www.otherist.com, and otherist.blogspot.com

Joshua & Steven
-the Otherist(s)

By the pricking of my thumbs....

2009-07-09T08:29:00.000-07:00

"By the pricking of my thumbs
Something wicked this way comes."

Okay, technically I don't think one would call it 'wicked', per se. Unless one were speaking in Bostonian slang (and when one opens the floodgates of slang usage, one might even find oneself unexpectedly using words like 'hella' or 'hecksa'), but we figure using slang is at the very least balanced by quoting Shakespeare. Anyway, nothing evinces a feeling of importance and impending change like serious literary quotation, so in the interest of making it sound even more portentous, we're also quoting Andy Warhol, who said; "They say that time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself." And that's exactly what we're doing. Change is on the horizon for egg mercantile, so prepare yourselves for something hecksa new!

Alexa Lixfeld - Metamorphose

2009-07-01T01:06:00.000-07:00

My parents were true believers in the theory that hard work builds character and integrity. At least that's what they said... but often I wondered if it was just an easy way for them to to say; "We had to work, so you do, too". Childhood grudges aside, every summer I was sent to work with my father laying concrete foundations (I had switched from Captain Caveman to a G.I.Joe thermos for lunch, while he had the incomparable Stanley vacuum bottle), hauling concrete forms and generally 'helping out' - which I later realized meant 'not getting paid'. (Oh, sorry, grudges aside.) While I can't speak as to whether or not 'helping out' assisted my parents with the monumental task of instilling any staunch moral fiber or tireless work ethic in me, there were other things that I took from those dusty, dirty, drawn-out summer days. One of them was an appreciation for the unsung beauty of concrete. Back then concrete was for driveways and basements, to be utilized only as a foundation, not an aesthetic. Nowadays it's all around us, and there are a multitude of designers and architects who have embraced industrial chic. Pottery pioneer Alexa Lixfield is one of these, and has captured the essence of this aesthetic in her Metamorphose collection, a series of colored porcelain vessels that artfully combine the roughness of concrete with the sophistication of modern form and color.

The interesting seam-work and play between the matte exterior and glazed interior highlight this contrast, transforming a simple shape into a textural triumph that is just as satisfying to hold and feel as it is to gaze upon. And unlike my formative years, appreciating this concrete-inspired crockery won't require any back-breaking labor on your part. See available models in the webshop.

Blackbird Fly Twin Lens Reflex Camera

2009-06-12T05:55:00.000-07:00

We're as guilty as the next person when it comes to falling in love with the digital photography revolution. Hell, we're guilty of buying a camera because we loved the fact that it fit into an Altoids tin. But we have to agree with our music-loving, vinyl-hoarding friends when they say that something is lost when we move completely to digital; when a photo is just a collection of pixels on a tiny screen that are just as easily deleted as created. But don't you fret, friends and neighbors, we've found just the thing: the Blackbird Fly Twin Lens Reflex Camera.

With a design hearkening back to the early days of photography - when many believed having your picture taken might mean the loss of your soul - Blackbird Fly gives you instant street cred and a variety of options to exercise the artist in you.

Unlike other twin lens reflex cameras which use 120 format film, the Blackbird Fly uses readily available 35mm film. The twin lens design allows you to take photos either from waist height looking down into the viewfinder or use the "sportsfinder" for quicker shots. Couple this with the (provided) masks, and you can take photos in the regular 35mm format, square format, or remove the masks entirely for the larger square format that allows the image to fill the entire width of film, including the sprocket holes (our personal favorite). For shooting during the day, you can alternate between apertures f/7 and f/11, with a shutter speed of 1/125. At night, you can switch the shutter to B-mode to let in as much light as you might need, or you can also attach a flash for even more possibilities. In the webshop

Stanley Classic Vacuum Bottles

2009-06-11T08:49:00.000-07:00

When I was a kid there were few things that excited me more than the prospect of going on a day trip to the mountains with my dad. I'd like to say that it was because I thought the outdoors was cool, but if I'm honest the scenery itself never entered the equation.

My interests were directed towards the fixins; a huge maple donut for breakfast, and to wash it down piping hot chocolate, housed in my Captain Caveman thermos. But no matter how much I loved Captain Caveman (and the Teen Angels), my dad's Stanley thermos always pulled a Joan Crawford: it was bigger, it was stronger, and it would always beat mine. I’ve always coveted that thermos; then for its sheer capacity and ability to maintain the warmth of that chocolate for hours, now for both that and the nostalgia factor. Okay, you got me, it’s still for the sheer capacity, sweetened by the lifetime guarantee.

These days I’m no longer reduced to coveting; finally I've said goodbye to Captain Caveman and have embraced at least one thing my dad and I have in common: an appreciation for a product that can house a whole lot of chocolate, coffee, or any other beverage - and keep it hot or cold all day long. See our Stanley Classic collection in the webshop.

Oohhh... Nesting Boxes - Lok Ming Fung

2009-03-28T07:54:00.000-07:00

Whether you collect shoes, books, toys or jewelry, one of the greatest challenges any collector ever faces is answering the Storage Question. Too often our collections end up in attic boxes, stuffed beneath the bed or pushed to the back of a drawer, and this inability to keep them in any accessible order severely limits our ability to enjoy them to their full potential. Marie Antoinette solved the Question as it pertained to her immense jewelry collection by commissioning two monumental cabinets, one of which is still displayed at Versailles and the other at Windsor Castle.

While most of us don't have to answer the Display Question on such a grand scale, it's still rewarding to find solutions that are just as elegant as Madame Antoinette's cabinets but that aren't too large to transport nor barricaded behind velvet stanchions in ancient castles. When we saw Lok Ming Fung's "Oohhh..." ceramic nesting boxes we knew we'd found just such a solution; bedecked with beauteous barnacle-esque bits and equipped with varying numbers of trays and compartments, these handmade works of art will not only provide you with the perfect place for prized possessions, they'll become one. See available boxes in the webshop

made by rENs - kopje kopje

2009-03-05T08:32:00.000-08:00

Most people agree that one of the last hurdles in learning a new language is understanding the sense of humor. So you can imagine my sense of accomplishment when I 'got' my very first Dutch play on words - and it was all thanks to Kopje Kopje. For you other nederlandse neophytes, you know (as I now do) that 'kop' means both 'head' and 'cup' in Dutch, and the diminutive (not derogative) -je ending signifies both the small size and big beauty these cups contain.

So whether your eye for beauty runs to traditional dolls or you're someone like salacious Salome and just like heads (that one's for all you Bible readers out there), we've got just your cup of tea...... what, too much? Handcast by Renee Mennen & Stefanie van Keijsteren (collectively know as Made by rENs).

Available in matte black, glazed white porcelain or a combination thereof. You can choose either the crowned princess or the bonnet wearing red riding hood. Come by and check them out, or see them in the webshop.

mid-Winter Sale... egg mercantile!

2009-01-18T10:49:00.000-08:00

It's a tale as old as retail; a cycle tied to the seasons just as surely as that of the farmers and their crops. It comes after the holidays have left us unsure as to whether we're sated or exhausted, happy for their passing or sad. When the icy fingers of Winter slither beneath our collars and through cracks in windows, and when the definition of pleasure is a good measure of whiskey in a hot coffee with a dollop of whip cream. Yep, you guessed right; it's mid-winter SALE time!

Knowing that everyone loves a bargain and not wanting to disappoint, egg mercantile is offering up some dashing discounts on select items throughout the store. So whether you need a 2009 calendar to start planning the new year or your favorite color Pantone mug to house that aforementioned coffee (2 for €20!), don't let Winter's clutching fingers intimidate you (because you can shop online, too)!

Fruit is not a dessert... Penkridge Ceramics

2009-01-16T09:31:00.000-08:00

One of our greatest joys in life comes at the end of a fine meal when dessert is finally served. And one of our greatest disappointments must be when that dessert is served and it's plain old fruit. Fruit can make a cheese plate complete, provide a necessary component in fondue, or possibly even a salad. But sorry, hosts and hostesses around the world - we don't care what time of year it is, fruit is not dessert. Special dispensation can be granted if one includes whipped cream, pastry, or a sweet little labor-intensive cookie, but we stress that this is only acceptable in the heat of high summer, or if you picked the berries from your own garden (and even then, it's an exception, not a blessing).

What fruit can also be is an amazing piece of decor, as evidenced by the incomparable collection of realistic ceramic fruits and vegetables by Penkridge Ceramics. Founders Lorraine Taylor and Nicky Smart have created a luscious feast of eye candy comprised of unique pieces that are handcrafted to look and feel picture perfect. Through the application of multiple glazes each apple and pear is given brilliant color and rich texture, which combined with distinctive hand painted blemishes and carved wooden stems makes for a finished product almost indistinguishable from the real thing. Unless, that is, one opts for the sophisticated monochromatic variations which showcase the beautiful shape and all of "nature's" imperfections. See what we did there? Anyway, check out our collection in the webshop.

Manos Del Uruguay... Silk Blend!

2009-01-05T03:12:00.000-08:00

When we first began knitting, it didn't take us long to fall madly in love with the wonderful wool from Manos del Ururguay. The kettle dyed yarns have the most striking colors and for 100% wool, it is some of the softest that we have ever run through our fingers. It doesn't hurt that the yarn is hand-spun and hand-dyed by a womens' cooperative in Uruguay - so not only is it high quality and beautiful, it's also Fair Trade.

Just recently a loyal customer tipped us off: Manos has gone one better and created a silk and merino blend that is guaranteed to have any knitter coveting multiple skeins and all their friends begging for the fruits of their labors.

See our collection in the webshop. We've added 6 colors of the Silk Blend to our collection, with more coming towards the end of February.

Penguin & Fish .... Kitties!

2008-12-31T03:14:00.000-08:00

Due to the holiday rush we are extremely tardy on posting these... but now that things have calmed down we wanted to be sure to get these cuties up.

Cats have been our treasured companions since the earliest days of Egypt, guarding tombs, hunting vermin, playing surrogate child, or just providing a sympathetic ear. While these fetching fabric felines, handmade by Alyssa Thomas of Penguin & Fish, won't be catching any critters, they excel at almost everything else, and there's the added bonus of no litterbox, no allergies, and no hairballs... each is unique and numbered, with embroidered features. See our collection in the webshop

Undergrowth Design - Blaue Blume Tea Set

2008-11-23T08:14:00.000-08:00

Blaue Blume, the blue flower, is a central symbol of Romanticism, representing desire, love, and the metaphysical striving for the infinite and unreachable. We can't think of anything more romantic than Undergrowth Design's Blaue Blume Tea set - delicate porcelain with a white lace pattern and a hot pair of legs with dainty gold shoes for the handle? Here at last is a tea set even the men in your life can appreciate!

Our favorite is the 'sugar bath' - a claw foot bathtub where the legs are the spoon. Check out our assortment in the webshop.

Wonderland - Élise Lefebvre

2008-11-06T06:09:00.000-08:00

Élise Lefebvre's "Wonderland" collection evokes in porcelain what Aesop and other great storytellers did with words; the sly inquisitiveness of the fox, the innocent naivete of the fawn, or the sweet intelligence of the piglet. These perfectly formed woodland creatures seem to have partaken of Alice's infamous shrinking "Drink Me" elixir, and are equally at home foraging on your dresser or decorating your decolletage. The only question is which one you think is cutest.

Other pieces in the Wonderland collection include the Bambi Box and no less cute, the Hedgehog Plate. Check out our assortment in the webshop.

Something's Hiding In Here - new arrivals

2008-10-30T09:11:00.000-07:00

There are times in your life when a card really doesn't say it all, where the thousand words an image is worth aren't those you're trying to convey, or even when you've asked yourself that most painful of gift-giving queries; "What do you get for the person who has everything?" For these times and more, Shauna Alterio & Stephen Loidolt of Something's Hiding in Here have developed a charmingly eccentric range of sentimental somethings that are sure to pick up where conventional cards and gifts leave off.
Check out our assortment in the webshop.

Ibride - Reversible Double Headed Trays

2008-10-20T09:10:00.000-07:00

Martial and Marius, Martha and Madeleine

The relation between predator and prey has always been fascinating to watch, whether it be on Animal Planet or a David Attenborough special. The cycle of life (and death) is compelling and thrilling, all the more so when paired with moving music and driving, disembodied narration. Ibride taps into this fascination with their new reversible portrait trays, artfully rendering a new and inspiring interpretation of what was, until now, only an ecological relationship.

The reversible design calls to mind playing cards, with the animal subjects portrayed in period costumes that would be at home in any 18th century games parlour. The first reversible playing cards were designed so that players were not tempted to turn cards in their hand 'right-side up' and inadvertently give clues to their opponents. With these the effect is exactly the opposite - unless you have two you'll be tempted to turn it over again and again. View our Ibride collection in our webshop.

Frédérique Morrel - Making a case for lace

2008-10-10T09:38:00.000-07:00

We've always had a soft spot for re-purposed and recycled items, so when we saw Frédérique Morrel's trays it was love at first sight. Rescuing tapestry, needlework pieces, and patterns and then using them to make one-of-a-kind serving trays? What's not to love?

With her new trays, Madam Morrel hasn't stopped at just saving old tapestries, she's gone one better and added delightful doilies and lace to the mix. Brilliant! Who among us hasn't looked at a needlework pooch portrait or old-school tapestry scene and liked it despite the small worm of shame wiggling in our stomach, unwilling to admit even to our partners that perhaps we're developing septuagenarian sensibilities?

Thanks to Madam Morrel our predilection for petit point can come out of the closet and sit proud beneath a bevy of beverages, your tray riding shotgun on the side table, not just protecting the tabletop but providing transportation for the drinks you're serving to all your friends, who will ooh and aah as they uncover the treasures embedded beneath. We like Manhattans, if you're wondering. See the updated collection in our webshop

Vegan Wall Trophy: Update

2008-10-06T07:03:00.000-07:00

Appealing to our love of nature - both our desire to protect it as well as frame it and place it stylishly on our walls - the designers at Cardboard Safari weren't satisfied resting on the laurels of their original collection of Stag, Moose, and Rhino.

This month saw the introduction of the American Bison, another majestic animal to add to our cardboard collection. In the wild, the bison is deceptively docile-looking and despite being an herbivore will attack if provoked. Its mild-mannered movements belie an ability to run faster than a speeding locomotive (we know the Railroad Companies didn't like the competition), and leap fences in a single bound! So if you ever see a real Bison, enjoy it from afar, confident in the knowledge that when you get home - safe and sound - you can get as close as you want to yours. Now available (big and small size) in-store and in our webshop.

Orla Kiely Paper

2008-10-05T04:37:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't remember the dreary design days of the 90's, when black and tan were the only acceptable colors for your home, your wardrobe, your car, your bag. Yes, I know what you would say; 'the subdued palette of the 90's was a direct reaction to garish colors representing the glaring commercialism of the 80's.' Whichever way you slice it, 90's fashion tended to be just as boring on the eyes as it was detrimental to one's design spirit.

Happily, not everyone allowed themselves to be led around like beige and black sheep, for the 90's also saw the launch of Orla Kiely's stylishly simple designs. Choosing not to do away with colors (like so many others during those drab days), with her unique design sensibility she instead reframed them using a mixture of geometry and graphic design that was at once fresh and immediately recognizable. Fast forward to present day, and we can all see (and enjoy) just how far ahead Orla was.

One of the most recent additions to her design arsenal is a paper series featuring stationary and notebooks, each sporting one of Orla's signature designs on the cover, with assorted goodies spread throughout. Our favorite is the travel journal, replete with dashing stickers for you to code each of your discoveries while on the road, whether that be a favorite restaurant, museum, or some hidden away spot that only you know. And, if you're feeling generous, perhaps a few close friends. Now available in-store and in our webshop.

House of Animals - Heather Louise

2008-09-17T06:00:00.000-07:00

The Houses of Plantagenet, Orange-Nassau and Windsor have all had a major hand in shaping the socio-political landscape of Europe. But a new house is now rising and threatens to eclipse the radiance of them all; Heather Louise's House of Animals! With sensational stylings calling to mind the glories of both the Victorian and Edwardian eras, this collection of avian, amphibian and other forest dwellers are now taking the city and sea (or canal) by storm in fashionable frocks and classy coats that would put the dandiest dandy to shame!

Heather's felt figures are always show stoppers, and this collection will be no exception! Each doll is entirely handmade using Dutch felt, vintage fabrics and beads, and often real snail shells (although Heather assures us no snails were harmed in the process). It's no surprise that these one-of-a-kind creations have personalities all their own that speak volumes without saying a single word, each one crying out for attention and a place in your home.

But how does one choose a favorite when faced with the Swan Sea Captain in his tricorner hat or the Elegant Uncle Platypus with Monocle? And what of the Dapper Squirrel whose coat accents his baby blues perfectly, or the Country Frog Gentleman whispering (sordid?) secrets to his diminutuve Snail Friend?

Unless you have the shop to yourself, it's best to choose quickly. From the safety of the counter we've seen it all, from customers bargaining with each other to the ol' Bait-n-Switch that leaves a disconsolate someone staring at the empty place their doll used to occupy. Fur will fly and feathers fall when it's all said and done, but when finally the melee calms and the air clears, who will you be left holding? See available dolls as we update them in our webshop.

Kyoko Hashimoto - Seducing the Bowerbird

2008-08-23T06:01:00.000-07:00

When describing inspiration for her newest collection, Kyoko Hashimoto directs our attention to an Australian native: the bowerbird. Bowerbirds show us that the metrosexual is not just a human invention. The male birds spend hours designing their nests with unique collections that are made up of everything from traditional twigs and leaves to man-made bits of fluff and any 'bling' that has been left carelessly lying around, all in an attempt to create the perfect seductive mood.

It's this synergistic blending of materials that is so evident in Kyoko's jewelry - hand cut resin is paired with wood, brass and silver to create pieces that are reminiscent of both Victorian lace patterns and vintage Art Deco jewelry. A beautiful example of this is our favorite piece; the reversible Dinner Party Necklace. Inspired by a toy car model kit and components, Kyoko's translation is playful without being childish, elegant without being fussy, and foxy without being floozy.

We first spotted Kyoko's work on Sia's blog and immediately knew that we would try to get more information. Now that Kyoko's work is in the shop we are so glad we did. Check out our assortment in the webshop.

The Little Zoo - e.soule photography

2008-06-15T06:30:00.000-07:00

When I was a child I was obsessed with the idea of becoming as small as my toys and being able to see things from their perspective. "The Incredible Shrinking Woman" and "Fantastic Voyage" were two of my favorite Saturday Matinees, caught during their later runs on television, of course. While Elizabeth Soule may not have used the same toys that I once fantasized about, she has beautifully exhibited the world from their point of view (perhaps He-Man and She-Ra aren't able to take Tyra Banks' direction and smile 'using just the eyes' - and thus make for less than ideal subjects). Soule's "Little Zoo" series manages to capture elusive micro-wildlife in macro still-life. Each image has been mounted, UV protected and coated in a thin layer of wax-like archival sealant, ready to either hang or be stacked on that surface that's been crying out for a little decoration. The only thing better than getting one of these is stacking three. See available photos in our webshop.

Lola Goldstein - Teapot Friend...Limited Edition

2008-04-25T02:51:00.000-07:00

It's the highlight of every plush friend's existence, when their hostess rescues them from the dark recesses of the closet or their perpetual naptime on the bed and takes them out on the back lawn for a tea party. But sadly, every little girl grows out of the stage when they're content to provide all sides of the conversation (at least most do) and prefers real tea and biscuits to water and air, and the stuffed menagerie are given away or forgotten. But not this little friend!

Refusing to go quietly into the night, this friend from Lola Goldstein has given itself a purpose - if it won't be offered the tea, then it will serve it! And thanks to some planning by a knitting relative (Lola's Mom), each friend has its very own hat to keep it and your tea toasty!

Also new to us from Lola: Limited edition handmade ceramic dolls. Each of these dolls come from a limited edition of 150 pieces - each is numbered, decorated with real gold, and signed by Lola. As always, cute overload! See available pieces as we update them in the webshop.

Cardboard Safari, Trophies for Vegans

2008-04-03T04:34:00.000-07:00

No self-respecting log cabin or ski lodge would be complete without a roaring fireplace crowned with a huge mounted moose head staring down on cable-knit sweater wearing, smiling, ruddy-faced people with mugs of hot cocoa stuffed into cozy couches. But taxidermy can admittedly be a little morbid, and the more squeamish among us might even call it vulgar. No worries, Snow Bunnies! The folks at Cardboard Safari have created something to satisfy the most avid trophy hunter or hippie vegan in all of us. Not a product made from animals unfortunate enough to find themselves in the crosshairs of some testosterone-addled hunter, these trophy heads are made from environmentally friendly recycled cardboard. Flat packed for easy carriage, they provide both the satisfaction of piecing them together as well as that prized aesthetic to make your very own cozy cabin complete! Check our selection in the webshop.

Theo - feeling piggy?

2008-03-21T10:32:00.000-07:00

The venerable pig has been forced to weather some bed press throughout the years, despite a long list of valuable attributes. Smarter than dogs and oft times just as affectionate, they make great pets, as evidenced by George Clooney's 18-year relationship with Max, the pot-bellied pig credited with saving George's life in 1994 (and Max even took a flight in John Travolta's private jet, although not in a life-saving capacity). But there's one attribute we feel has been overlooked these last few years: that of being the hallowed guardian of our loose change! Well overlook no more, with THEOsaurus! (We know, the '-saurus' makes it seem of the dino- variety, but according to its creator the name has more to do with the Latin definition of the word 'thesaurus': treasure.) Available for all you purists in plain white as well as a Blau Dresner pattern for those who enjoy the classics, THEO is available standing on fat little legs with feet made of actual cork or seated featuring a quality metal lock. You have to spend a little to save a little!

Newly hybridized wall platters from ibride

2008-03-18T04:38:00.000-07:00

We've always been fans of animalia, whether that be old school minotaurs and harpies, or more current incarnations like Perlman's ever tragic Beast fighting for ill-fated love (Ron Perlman, not Rhea). These new rectangular platters from ibride are no exception, rather they're glowing examples of the hybridization that we love so well. With subjects ranging from the Crow Conquistador to the Gosling Governess, they're guaranteed to satisfy whether you're an ornithologist, period-drama lover, or just love people with animal heads.

Much larger than their previous oval fancy animal platters, these measure in at 63 x 43cm (approx 25 x 17 inches) and feature super fancy images. See our entire ibride collection here.

Under the Stump, 1st installment

2008-03-16T12:29:00.000-07:00

Of course any package from Heather Louise does not disappoint. This latest box was no different - packed with so much Heather Louise Style Goodness that it bowled us over! Under the Stump (1st installment) is now taking up much of the egg mercantile window and the front of our shop! It's great! Bunny Girls, Mushroom Princesses, great big Cursing Bears, Dutch Boys, and more! We've only gotten a few of them up in the webshop thanks to some of Heather's own photos -- we'll try to put more up in the webshop in the coming week, just waiting on a little sunshine to help with the pics.

Frédérique Morrel - Vintage re-made

2008-02-15T09:45:00.000-08:00

Frédérique Morrel was troubled by the fact that her grandmother’s needlework ended up in the trash when she passed away. Since then, she has found an interesting concept to recycle these and other un-justly, un-recognized, anonymous and devalued artifacts.

Frédérique's products have been carefully “re-made” using vintage needlework saved from oblivion in the interest of the redemption of the painstaking work involved in their original creation. Each product is one-of-a-kind, using a unique combination of tapestries or tapestry pieces, assembled in order to create an interaction between themes.

Currently we are featuring a collection of some of Frédérique's smaller goods - trays & keychains. See our available models as we update them in our webshop

Hints of Spring - La Fille du Consul

2008-02-08T07:07:00.000-08:00

As we get closer to Spring, though the weather can still be gloomy - we are starting to see hints of Spring everywhere we look. Leaf buds starting to show on the trees, bulbs starting to shoot from the ground, and now the Lily of the Valley pins as well as others (flowers, pea pods, ginko leaves) have arrived from Delphine Roche de Montgrand (La Fille du Consul).

Check out our selection as we update them in our webshop.

Preview: Under the Stump - Heather Louise

2008-02-06T06:14:00.000-08:00

We received a small advance of mushrooms and one odd fellow named Uncle Gilbert from Heather's upcoming collection "Under the Stump" which is due to be fully available at egg mercantile towards the end of February. These dolls are inspired by woodland creatures and odd things you may find when looking under rocks & old logs in the forest.

If you are not yet familiar with Heather Louise's work, she makes everything 100% by hand -- everything is hand cut and sewn -- nary a machine is involved in the process! And each doll comes with a hand drawn card specific to the individual doll and most of the large dolls can stand on their own. They are amazing!

Uncle Gilbert is hilarious, we just can't get enough of that guy!

Just in time for Valentine's Day - Lyndie Dourthe

2008-02-04T03:25:00.000-08:00

Opening a box from Lyndie Dourthe is always exciting, like opening a treasure chest! Our latest package of goodness from Lyndie arrived today. It held an assortment of birds, animals, and anatomy...

... and a few hearts, just in time for Valentine's day. See the available pieces as we update them in our webshop.

Casalinga

2008-01-06T06:07:00.000-08:00

Another maker of porcelain treasures from Denmark comes to egg mercantile: Casalinga. Created by Trine Weng and Susan Liebe, new items in the shop include: brooches, rings, salt & pepper shakers, a sugar bowl, and decorative birds for your walls. Available now in the webshop.

Karin Eriksson

2007-12-06T16:08:00.000-08:00

We are long-time admirers of her work, which makes it that much more exciting to have some of Karin Eriksson's pieces in our shop. Our current assortment includes handmade stoneware mint cups, signe beakers and bowls in addition to cast bone china tea light holders. This stuff is seriously beautiful. Check it out in-store or in our webshop.

Lola Goldstein

2007-11-29T08:03:00.000-08:00

Beyond cute. It's the only way to describe the creations of Lola Goldstein. They are made from white earthenware clay, handglazed and finished. These little guys traveled all the way from Argentina -- it was definitely worth the trip. It's hard to choose a favorite: Friend in a Nut, Tiny Spice Jar, Egg Breakfast Set, or Salt and Pepper -- they're all fantastic! Available in the shop and here in our webshop.

Crochet Jardim

2007-11-01T10:02:00.000-07:00

Crochet Jardim ... Crocheted cactus!?? Yep ... a big box of them arrived here, all the way from Brazil where they are created by Thais Ueda. If you thought normal cactus were easy to care for, these will positively thrive in almost any environment ... no water required! Additional perk: the packaging is made from recycled materials. Check them out in our webshop and in-store.

Atelier LZC

2007-10-25T04:43:00.000-07:00

We have some new items from Atelier LZC in the shop. A tote bag, sets of badges, an amazing panoramic postcard book, stickers, triptych wall hangings, and of course the latest in tea towels... now available in the webshop!

Elepoica

2007-10-13T02:50:00.000-07:00

Lyndie Dourthe's new creations, Elepoica, have arrived. An assortment of animals with gilded stars and various beads, each is carefully stuffed, stitched, and embellished by hand. They are all fitted with a silver plated stickpin which makes them easy to secure to coats, hats, bags... or keep them in their gauze lined box as a small treasure.

La Fille du Consul

2007-10-10T02:15:00.000-07:00

Fantastic brooches: flowers, pods with freshwater pearl "peas", ginko leaves, and even a fancy snail... all sculpted from polymer clay by French artist Delphine Roche de Montgrand. Each piece is handmade by Delphine with enough realism to make you look twice and enough subtle sparkle for a third, fourth, and fifth look.

12punt3 ... Oneye ... Fruit'eye!

2007-10-05T07:03:00.000-07:00

Created entirely by graphic designer Marianne Roosa in Den Haag, a small troop of Fruit'eyes have invaded egg mercantile. Strawb'eye, Melon'eye, Orange'eye, and Cherry'eye are currently having a sit-down on our chair near the window, waiting for new friends to take them along.

new from iBride

2007-09-30T05:09:00.000-07:00

We were sure to stop by the ibride stand at Maison-Objet in September to see their new additions... we were definitely not disappointed. Available now!

They have added 2 new oval platters to their collection of fancy animals

In addition there are 2 super elegant non-animal platters, Les Amants

And a new addition to the Fancy Lady Platters: Zaya

La Lutine

2007-09-28T09:26:00.000-07:00

La Lutine rings are made from a unique blend of shell and resin creating a look that is delicate and shimmering but deceptively strong enough for everyday wear. Slightly stretchable bands made from industrial grade rubber are attached to the rings using an elastic cord, making for a ring that fits more than one finger size.

Heather Louise: Bears, Bunnies, & Baroque

2007-08-29T17:29:00.000-07:00

The forces that govern customs and delivery services were on our side today, as we got a nice chubby box of Heather Louise goodies... Poison Bears, Sneaky Bunnies, Baroque dolls and more. Check out the goodness!

These little Top Hat Men have little embroidered tattoos... both of them have anchor tattoos - but one also has a little embroidered skull & crossbones tattoo and the other a red heart tattoo with the word "Ma" in it.

Stuck in Customs

2007-08-27T09:04:00.000-07:00

We, and everyone else, are eagerly waiting for the arrival of more Heather Louise dolls... unfortunately the Netherlands Douane seems intent on keep these amazing dolls all for themselves. We are hoping they arrive very soon... please stay tuned for more updates.

*Update: Dolls should be available in the shop on 30th August* :)

De Loods: Nerdy Friends

2007-08-26T06:36:00.000-07:00

We have a small family of new dolls that made their premier here this week. De Loods Nerdy Friends. Designed and handmade by local doll maker Anna Hegeman, each Nerdy Friend is unique.

Anatomy Lessons, Lyndie Dourthe

2007-07-10T14:41:00.000-07:00

Once again Lyndie Dourthe amazes us with a new batch of her Boîtes à Trésors inspired by French cabinets of curiosities and 17th & 18th century encyclopedia illustrations.

Whether you wear it as a brooch or just keep it as a little treasure, these handmade pieces are attention getters. Choose from heart, brain, lungs, or hand. Each has a silver plated stick-pin on the back and comes in its own painted box. Made in France.

Stiksel Passport Cases

2007-07-04T09:34:00.000-07:00

Leather, canvas, handmade locally. We got our first batch of "Never a Dull Passport" cases. Made and designed by Karin Röling of Rotterdam, these cases are made from leather and canvas remnants and hand stamped leather patches.

These "Never a Dull Passport Cases" will be sure to put a smile on customs officials and passport control officers faces.

The Bubble Roome & Pure Altitude

2007-06-08T08:51:00.000-07:00

We are extremely excited to add bodycare to our assortment here at egg mercantile! Our shipment of The Bubble Roome lotions and soaps arrived as well as our order of Pure Altitude bodycare balms and lotions. 2 different lines for double the goodness!

The Bubble Roome (created by David E Johnston) makes natural soaps in small batches with the most amazing scents (Clementine-Cedarwood, Fennel-Anise, Grapefruit-Tangerine, etc).
No synthetic preservatives, dyes, or scents -- and no animal testing. What's not to love?? I can't even describe how amazing these products are making the shop smell!

Pure Altitude, from Fermes de Marie in the Rhône-Alpes, utilizes the restorative properties of Edelweiss. This famous Alpine plant provides powerful natural protection against harmful effects of the environment and against the signs of skin aging. Complimented with other herbs and plant extracts such as Rose, Sylvester Pine, Geranium, Orange, Lavender, and Raspberry oil, these products leave your skin soft, sweet smelling, and well protected from mother nature.

Lotta Jansdotter returns!

2007-05-10T09:28:00.000-07:00

Back by popular demand, we are happy to say that our Spring order of Lotta Jansdotter zipper bags has arrived. These 100% linen bags with dyed to match zipper are the perfect carry-all for bits and bobs, cosmetics, pencils, or even as a casual wallet or purse.

Les Ailes du Biloba

2007-05-07T16:13:00.000-07:00

We saw these wee bags in Paris. Made by Les Ailes du Biloba, they are useful as either a casual shoulder bag for the essentials on a day or night out... or worn around the waist to keep things close at hand. Colorful printed linen with a hand painted Russian Matryoshka style pin to use as a closure or just as decoration. And, due to popular demand, we are also selling the pins separately.

more heather louise dolls arrive!

2007-04-26T07:34:00.000-07:00

Just when you thought Heather Louise's hands would fall off, another amazing batch of dolls finds its way into egg mercantile. Foxes, Underwear Men, Bears, Scaredy Bats, Smoking Kitties, we got 'em ...and more!

Seriously, you just can't have enough Heather Louise.

ps- there is a rumour one of these dolls recently appeared in a recent episode of Holland's Next Top Model!

La Marelle Postcard Sets

2007-04-25T12:23:00.000-07:00

They've been so popular since we first launched them, that we have put together some La Marelle postcard sets for the webshop... featuring the art of Camilla Engman, Kathie Olivas, Emmanuelle Pioli, and more!

We'll also be adding 2 sets of postcards from Nicoletta Ceccoli in a few weeks.

new scherning jewelry

2007-04-19T06:50:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we received our new order of Scherning porcelain & sterling silver jewelry. In addition to receiving replenishment on the styles we already had, we have 2 new pieces: the bracelet and the double earrings.

Mette Scherning's jewelry is all made by hand -- no 2 pieces are the same. She creates porcelain disks which are hand decorated and then paired with sterling silver hardware... the final product is very delicate in appearance and quite unique.

new serrote letterpress at egg mercantile

2007-04-18T06:32:00.000-07:00

Last week we received the newest of Serrote's letterpressed notebooks. The Lenha or Log notebook has some great lettering on the cover -- and the inside faux woodgrain paper is so good!

new mini notebooks, La Marelle

2007-04-16T08:26:00.000-07:00

Our 2nd La Marelle order has finally arrived... inside, as anticipated, were our 4 new mini notebooks with illustrations by 3 different artists: Nicoletta Ciccoli, Lilidoll, & Benjamin Lacombe.

egg mercantile shows Gallery Vassie

2007-04-12T08:59:00.000-07:00

We are pleased to announce that egg mercantile will host a selection of photographs courtesy of Amsterdam's Gallery Vassie. Curated and operated by Addie Vassie, the gallery represents over 20 international photographers. egg mercantile will play host to a selection of photographs from Antoni + Alison, Marcus Davies, and more.

new heather louise at egg mercantile

2007-04-11T06:46:00.000-07:00

Today we said goodbye to Burgundy Marie Antoinette and the last of the Pocket Kitteez ... luckily Heather Louise showed up this morning to bring us a brand new batch of her special dolls. Mushroom Princess and Ninja Sheep? Oh yeah, we got 'em.

Happy Birthday!

2007-04-05T15:40:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we celebrate egg mercantile's 1-year anniversary... in the past year we have met so many nice people, both customers and creators. Thanks to all of you!

heather louise at egg mercantile

2007-03-30T10:01:00.000-07:00

We are thrilled to play host to Heather Louise's mob of dolls. Each one, handmade and unique, is completely special ... they are a challenge to keep in stock! Styles range from all manner of Marie Antoinette dolls to Ninja Sheep and Pocket Kitteez.

Bookhou Designs

2007-03-15T17:53:00.000-07:00

Bookhou Designs specializes in small batches of goods made from natural materials. These snap wallets, made from hand printed linen, are majorly cute and conveniently sized.

Flensted Mobiles

2007-03-06T16:06:00.000-08:00

I've always been mesmerized by mobiles, ever since I had Raggedy Ann and Andy floating around in my room as a kid (Super 70's, i know). When we saw these floating fancies from Flensted Mobiles, we were smitten. Fish, Balloons, Cranes, Swallows, and of course the Sheep .... it's hard to choose.

La Marelle en Papier

2007-03-01T05:08:00.000-08:00

We are always on the hunt for new journal & notebook designs, so we were pretty pleased to find that La Marelle offers journals with illustrations by lots of different artists (we were especially happy to see that Camilla Engman was one of them).

Lyndie Dourthe

2007-02-11T16:16:00.000-08:00

Lyndie Dourthe's talent is scary... check these brooches out. They are called Boîtes à trésors -- literally boxes of treasure. They are inspired by French curiousity cabinets and are taken from illustrations out of 17th & 18th century encyclopedias, hand beaded, and stitched.

Atelier LZC

2007-02-10T15:49:00.000-08:00

France has been a source of some beautiful items for us (no surprise there) -- Atelier LZC produces the most beautiful prints based on nature and whimsy ... we are currently featuring 3 different sets of LZC screen printed tea towels, some of their steel hanging objects, notebooks, and of course the notecards.

egg mercantile on Bloesem

2007-01-04T16:40:00.000-08:00

Irene at Bloesem has featured us in this week's Amsterdam Weekend Read all about knitting. Thanks Irene! When we found a European distributor for Manos del Uruguay we jumped at the chance to stock it in the shop. This amazing wool, a Corrie dale and Merino blend, has a surprisingly soft hand-feel and kettle dyed colors that will amaze you.

Blue Leaves

2006-12-17T16:03:00.000-08:00

"Design by nature, made by jewellers"
Blue Leaves - designed in Paris and produced in Barcelona. The sugar spoon immediately caught our attention -- with the great branch details, it's an eye catcher -- also great for serving loose tea. Blue Leaves spoons are made of a bronze base metal with a micron silver plating... we prefer the brushed matte finish.

iBride!

2006-12-10T15:26:00.000-08:00

We discovered iBride at the Maison-Objet trade show in Paris in early 2006 and ordered the Fancy Lady Platters for the shop... ...then at the Fall show fell in love with the Fancy Animal Platters - these trays are gorgeous - amazing colors and images -- water and heat resistant, perfect for the wall or tabletop. We and the trays even got a mention on Design*Sponge, thanks Grace!

egg mercantile in NL20!

2006-08-09T15:31:00.000-07:00

We received our first official press this month from an Amsterdam bi-weekly magazine called NL20. The photo used for the article doesn't really represent the shop, but we aren't complaining!