A History of Ballet and Dance
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Continue shoppingHardback coffee table book discussing the history of ballet and dance in the western world. By Alexander Bland, published in 1976. Second edition, 191 pages.
"Dance is universal and as old as society. Until very recently, its continuous history could be traced only through the works of artists who depicted it. Nowadays, photography, motion-picture film and new forms of dance notation provide a more reliable and comprehensive record. Nevertheless, the artists of the past serve us well. Alexander Bland has searched out a diverse collection of illustrations from many sources to illuminate this concise history of ballet and dance in the West."
Material Care
MATERIALS
Materials tell stories through touch, time, and transformation, carrying centuries of ingenuity and artistic expression, evolving from raw element to refined form.
Understanding their nature—how they live, age, and respond to use—allows us to become better stewards of the objects we collect and care for.
STERLING SILVER
With a legacy of precision and beauty, sterling silver emerged in 12th century Britain as an exacting ratio of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% “other metals”—typically copper. This specific balance created an alloy both practical and precious, strong enough for daily use yet soft enough to capture fine detail.
Sterling silver lives and breathes with its environment, developing a unique patina that tells the story of its journey (some embrace this darkening as a mark of character, while others prefer to maintain its original luster).
CARE
- Clean with warm water and mild soap after each use.
- Dry thoroughly with a soft, lint-free cloth.
- Use a silver polishing cloth for regular maintenance.
- Store in tarnish-resistant cloth or bags, away from direct sunlight.
BRASS
Brass has moved fluidly between utility and artistry since its discovery in the Neolithic period—a favorite for ancient metalsmiths and contemporary designers alike for its warmth and versatility. Like other living metals, brass develops a patina over time: a natural progression that can deepen its character or be gently polished away. Modern brass objects often intentionally play with this ability to hold both polished and matte finishes…a way to subtly nod to the multitudes held in a single material.
CARE
- Clean with warm water and mild soap.
- Dry immediately to prevent water spots.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from humidity.
- Use a brass cleaner and soft cloth to polish.
GOLD
Gold's permanence and purity have made it a universal symbol of value and preservation, with its remarkable resistance to corrosion resulting in ancient gold pieces that can appear as brilliant today as when they were created. As pure gold (24k) is too soft for most functional objects, artisans have developed various alloys that maintain its luminous quality with improved durability, and contemporary karat designation reflecting this balance.
CARE
- Clean gently with warm water and mild soap.
- Dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.
- For gold jewelry, store in individual dust bags or away from other pieces to prevent scratching.
- Remove gold jewelry before handling cleaning products or chemicals.
BLOWN GLASS
The alchemy of sand transformed by fire and breath, glassblowing has remained largely unchanged since its development in the 1st century BCE. The craft requires precise choreography between artisan and material, with each piece capturing a moment of controlled fluidity.
CARE
- Clean with warm water and mild soap.
- Avoid exposure to extreme temperature changes.
- Use a microfiber cloth to clean and dry.
- When picking up, hold from the body of the piece rather than delicate edges.
COPPER
Copper has been used for over 10,000 years, shaping tools and ornamental decor while historically indispensable as a conductor of heat and electricity. Its living surface responds dramatically to air and touch, naturally developing verdigris patterns—a patina that designers often incorporate into their work, allowing copper pieces to evolve with their environment.
CARE
- Clean with warm water and mild soap.
- Dry thoroughly to prevent spotting.
- Consider using a specialized copper cleaner to treat or avoid tarnish.
- Store in a dry place, avoiding excessive humidity.
STAINLESS STEEL
Stainless steel emerged in the early 20th century as a revolutionary material—strong and resistant to corrosion, with a pristine surface and enduring stability. Unlike its more reactive metal counterparts, stainless steel maintains its appearance with minimal intervention, making it ideal for pieces meant to maintain a consistent presence over time.
CARE
- Clean with warm water and mild soap.
- Dry with a soft cloth.
- Use a specific stainless steel cleaner to address stubborn marks.
- Avoid abrasive cleaners that might scratch.