Life’s little luxuries, we are surrounded by them, but often they go unnoticed.
To live a truly elegant life, each object in your life should be aesthetically pleasing. I also like to think that most objects I own are more than just decorative, they serve a purpose as well. Take my Apple products, they are beautifully designed, right down to the packaging and work very well right out of the box.
The same could be said for that little beauty in the photo. I have any number of ways to open an envelope (for however long paper envelopes may continue to exist), but one of the most satisfying is to use my pocket knife or the Toledo steel paper-opener that once sat on my father’s desk.
Surround yourself with well-made, useful objects that satisfy your aesthetic. Just make sure that you remember to luxuriate in the little things that life has to offer.
Like the commercial says: “what’s in your pocket?” Or on your desk?
A former fencer with a miniature sword as a letter opener, tres soigne! It is truly the little things that define great style.
As “rapierist” in the manner of the 16th century I was pleased when a friend at work presented me with one of these miniature rapiers. I was equally devastated when it snapped at the tang. I still have the parts.
Toledo makes some very elegant and useful pieces. We’re fortunate to have some too, with fond memories of Spain…
Keep up your excellent writing about this subject!
Mariette
Loved this post. My work (antiques) puts me in touch with all of those glorious ‘little things’ of a past age. Good to remind your readers of their importance in life!
I once knew a smallish, fairly delicate and soft spoken Southern lady who used an enormous, elaborate knife to open her mail. It certainly made one pause and give her a little more respect. -N.G.