I love vintage hunting! Whether buying items for myself or helping others find special pieces, it's discovering ideal vintage treasures that are most rewarding. For instance, this exquisite tole wall sconce was an amazing find. It all began while wandering through a bountiful antique shop teaming with eclectic collectibles. In an unknown town and a husband wanting to head home before dark . . . time was utmost. So while he left to visit a bookstore next door, I began to make haste floating on a cloud throughout three stories of the brick building.
An hour later having arrived on the third floor with tall paned windows I took a moment to rest in a chair. Alone yet surrounded amongst scattered antiques from floor to ceiling, I was content. No longer had I sat when downstairs, voices were heard. One cheerful voice belonged to my husband. It was then I grew panicky. He'd returned too soon, and darkness was falling! Well, I thought, having searched endlessly I've nothing to show for it.
It was then I gazed hungrily about me. Fortunately, my attention averted toward the dark recesses of one area. Here, hints of a partially draped table and other miscellaneous items. How had these been missed? Led by curiosity, I lifted the corner of the drape exposing the light fixture. Seldom have I seen similar in person. And such beauty, how many had owned this before? I was in love. Yet, its location seemed haunting. It was as if someone had hidden it only to return and buy later. No matter, determination presented necessity.
Upon first inspection, it was significantly grimy. But there were no broken or missing parts. In sum, the piece spoke quality craftsmanship. With a careful cleaning by me and rewiring by my husband, it could be restored back to full beauty.
Price-wise it was beyond my budget. However, I was immediately struck by the thought of a friend who could afford it. Standing in awe, more thoughts rang out like the bells of Notre Dame chiming on a gorgeous Parisian summer day. Knowing my friend whose decor style imbues vintage French, she wouldn't hesitate swinging from the topmost cathedral tower rafters to possess it.
Unfortunately, the sconce did not come as a pair or background history. Perhaps Italian 1930s? No matter, I immediately texted her. After quite a bit of negotiating on price with the dealer, it was finally purchased. Once restored and delivered, I took the photo seen above of the fixture where it now resides on her bedroom wall. Of course, she's exceedingly happy. Meanwhile, although pleased for her, I feel like Quasimodo sighing with grief at the loss of something loved.
~ June ~
