An American Princess

Have you ever seen a photograph of an aged princess and wondered what she might have looked like in her youth?


On our recent trip to Maine we actually met one. When we first met her she was sitting, aloof, by herself. There were a few acquaintances of hers, recently met, hovering nearby, but none had any real idea of who she was…or had been. How could they?

Scars from some unfortunate accident mingled with those of abuse. How this might have happened to such a one as her is anyone’s guess. But, happen it did. Some type of reconstructive surgery had not gone well, either. When the Redhead and I approached her she started to tremble a bit. Her legs, while still shapely, were weak from age and seemed barely able to support her. “How are you”, we asked, not knowing what else to say. No answer. She knew we could see for ourselves how she was. Bending down, I asked if there was anything we could do for her. Quietly, very slowly, she answered, “Take me away from here”. We did. A request from a princess cannot be refused.

Grace is a true American Princess (yes, America does have princesses). She has the lineage of a somewhat rural bloodline, rather than that of a capitol city such as New York, Boston or Philadelphia. Yet, the signs are there. Grace is now undergoing some surgery and spa treatment at Redeux. She welcomes visitors, even during this sometimes painful period. Such a lady! After her makeover, Grace, herself, will choose where she will reside in the future. Isn’t that just the way with royalty!

Hitching a ride back from Maine with Princess Grace were two sturdy fellows. One was an oak Mission style desk and the other was a nice looking, compact, farm table that could very well be a desk since it has a nice drawer. It, too, is made from oak. The desk should be ready by this weekend. The table can be ready soon afterwards.

Just back from the spa is a display cabinet / bookcase. With glass doors and sides it can really show off any collection. It is finished in a nice shade of green with black distressed undertones. Small wheels add to its charm and convenience.


Some folks have asked for pieces that would be a nice addition to a hallway or entryway. Two of our large mirrored chests would do very nicely. One has a marble top. Both have plenty of room for gloves, scarves, umbrellas or would make a handy place for arriving guests to place their hats, etc. Of course, being practical additions to a dining room or large bedroom would be suitable as well. Stop by and take a look.


Hope to see you again very soon!


Best regards,


Bill

The War is Over...

The war is over. America is victorious. Time to return to a peaceful life. Back to work, starting a family, building things not meant for the military.


2010?  No, it’s 1946 and a Connecticut furniture manufacturer starts to once again build furniture for the home. One of these items is a country-style cupboard made of solid maple. But, memories of the war years are still very fresh and the builders of this cupboard decide to add a special something – something to commemorate what had just been accomplished. An American eagle, carrying a victory banner, is the final touch and tribute to those men and women who gave so much. For those that came home to work for and in America, a better symbol could not be found.

It was an honor to work on this piece and to give it a new, yet timeless, look. Painted a special Redeux Barn Red, this solid wood cupboard is ready, once again, for active duty.

Redeux has located several smaller dressers and chests that will be painted. Of course, refinishing beautiful furniture with stains, shellacs, oils, varnishes and waxes will always take place at Redeux. But, we are ever mindful of the importance color took in the lives of our ancestors, especially those New Englanders looking to brighten drab winters. So, we are going to add some splashes of color that may remind you of what you see around you at various times of year: barn reds, oak leaf gold, yellow and orange, moss greens. If you have a color in mind for a special piece, let me know.

A china cabinet has just been spruced up with a spicy orange interior that really highlights the cabinet’s natural wood grain. It also has a lighted interior to show off your collectibles and crockery!

Our Ladies’ Writing Desk has just returned from having a few days at the Redeux Spa. The writing portion of the desk has been lightly sanded to remove some surface scratches and then given a durable varnish finish. Patina and normal wear indications have been left intact. It looks great.


I look forward to seeing you soon!


Bill