With the festive season well and truly upon us, many of us are turning our thoughts to the search for the perfect gifts to present friends and family with this Christmas.
Holly Johnson of internationally acclaimed antiques, arts and interiors business Holly Johnson Antiques advises on five unique Christmas gift ideas to treat your loved ones with.
Pasotti Umbrellas, £280
Pasotti’s range of Italian-designed, luxury umbrellas, that are as elegant as they are unique, includes an option for every taste. At Holly Johnson Antiques, our stock includes the Pasotti animal-themed umbrellas which feature beautifully carved handles in the shape of flamingoes, pandas, zebras, gorillas and several different dog breeds including the much-loved French Bulldog. Handmade in Italy, this stunning piece features an enameled brass handle and an automatic opening.
Piero Fornasetti porcelain horoscope plates, part of his Gli Influssi Astrali series, circa 1964. £490.00 each
Designs by Piero Fornasetti are always whimsically delightful yet luxurious, and the horoscope plates stand out for their meticulous hand gilding and printing. The Astrology-inspired designs mean a plate from this beautiful collection can make a very personal gift. Fornasetti plates are a piece of art in their own right, and can be equally appreciated whether they are mounted on a wall or displayed in a cabinet.
Robert “Mouseman” Thompson carved Oak Cheeseboard, England circa 1970. £550.
Featuring Mouseman’s trademark carved mouse, the Mouseman Cheeseboard makes the perfect gift for those who love to be the ‘hostess with the mostess’ at dinner parties. All Mouseman pieces are not only of exquisite quality and beautifully crafted, but also so well made that they truly make a gift that will stand the test of time.
Seren Bell (b.1950) “Below Black Mountains”, crayon, pen, and ink on paper. Wales, circa 2020. £950.
Described by Country Life magazine as one of the most original animal artists within the UK, Seren Bell’s paintings truly capture the different moods and seasons of the rural Welsh landscape. “Below Black Mountains” features the rare, historical breeds of sheep that the artist is so drawn to, with ancient, bony heads and unwavering gazes. A painting by this artist is a gift to be treasured, as two of her works can be found in the private collection of King Charles III who has the same fascination with obscure sheep breeds. Also stocked at Holly Johnson Antiques are paintings by Seren Bell depicting chickens, pigs, and hounds.
Porta Romana Lamps, starting price £1,434.
A bespoke item always makes for a very special present, and a Porta Romana piece can be customised as much as you desire, down to the smallest detail. With every item made to order by the best craftspeople across the British Isles, each Porta Romana lamp is totally unique and can be tailored to your loved one’s favourite colours, textures and finishes. If you are not sure where to start, Holly Johnson Antiques’ talented interior designers can advise and guide on each aspect of your design.
All gift suggestions are available to purchase at Holly Johnson Antiques.
