By Melissa Koh
Tiffany & Co. has debuted its new Home & Accessories Collection, the American jeweller's take on modern life where creativity and wit collide with the finest materials.
A protractor, ruler, drinking straw, paint can, first aid box and paper cup are some of the ordinary objects handcrafted in sterling silver into something extraordinary, possessing a whimsical wink that is quintessentially Tiffany.
"I think what makes the collection unique is that it incorporates the best quality, craftsmanship and design with a level of functionality that allows you to use these things every day," adds Reed Krakoff, chief artistic officer at Tiffany & Co.
The imaginative use of found objects to display Tiffany jewels was a signature of Gene Moore, Tiffany's legendary window designer. In his 1978 window installation, a paint can is artfully displayed with a sculptural splash of neon. In the new Home & Accessories Collection, this common household object is transformed into a crystal ice bucket with a sterling silver trim.
The Loring Tea Set — inspired by the steel tread pattern found in the streets and subways of New York City — pays homage to the tabletop items designed by Tiffany design director emeritus, John Loring, in 1979. This industrial detail was recreated by hand in the Tiffany & Co. hollowware workshop.
Bold patterns appear throughout the collection, as seen in the wheat leaf motif applied to bone china and cut crystal pieces. A diamond culet inspires the geometric pattern in the aptly named Diamond Point series, featuring glass, porcelain and silver objects as well as small leather goods.
Elsewhere, a color blocking pattern offers a modern twist on the iconic Tiffany Blue® as applied to a casual tea service set in bone china and on leather accessories.
Tiffany was one of the first companies to offer luxury tokens of enduring taste to complement a newborn's essential layette.
Artisans continue this tradition today by meticulously crafting exclusive creations, including a piggy bank, and a cashmere and wool blanket in signature Tiffany Blue, all destined to become cherished heirlooms for future generations.
