Wilton Armetale Flutes and Pearls
FLUTES & PEARLS Introduced in the summer of 2000, Flutes & Pearls is a reproduction and adaptation of an 1821 candlestick base design by Mr. Karl Friedrich Schinkel, sculpted by Ms. Nancy VanDerMolen. In decorative arts references, "Flutes" are sculpted parallel indentations and "Pearls" are repeated raised beads. The combination makes for a sparkling effect.
The history of this design and its application begins in 1821, when Karl Freidrich Schinkel (1781 - 1841) began publishing a portfolio collection of Classical designs which was destined to determine the direction of the decorative arts throughout Europe for many years. Mr. Schinkel was the Director of Public Works in Prussia during the first half of the 19th century and was the prominent architect in major buildings throughout the Prussian Empire, many still standing in what is present day Germany and Poland. His designs incorporated Greek, Roman and Gothic influences together in a grand style along with the simplicity of the emerging machine age technology. He also made countless drawings for application in the decorative arts. These decorative arts designs published in 1821 and later (until his death in 1841) included a wide variety of details for a wide variety of products and uses including architectural details, set designs, furniture and metal ware.
The particular design which Wilton Armetale has adapted, with changes reflecting a distinctly 21st century interpretation, was inspired by a candle holder base designed by Mr. Schinkel. Whereas much of the 19th century's Neoclassicism included curvilinear detail and figurative elements, this design was exemplary in its simplicity: combining common elements of beading, pearls and fluting in a symmetrical arrangement radiating from the center of each piece with monumental flair and refinement.
These elements were used repeatedly in architectural details for columns, moldings and frames for many hundreds of years and references to this combination can be found in ancient Roman and Greek buildings and objects. The effect was intended to dazzle with boldness and beauty and expresses the harmony possible between art and technology - contemporary and ancient.
Slightly more formal than many of the other patterns by Wilton Armetale, the classically sculpted effect is adaptable to accessorize a wide variety of Classical home decorations and dinnerware patterns. The placement of the elements together directs the eye in a relaxed glance around the smooth center while mirroring itself and objects placed on the highly polished piece. The overall effect combines traditional shapes and elements with a sparkling 21st century interpretation. Its refined Classical elegance is unparalleled in today's casual environment, yet is made so practical with Wilton Armetale. Design by Nancy VanDerMolen and Richard Wilton"



































