Friday, June 10, 2011

Fragrances of Summer: Sumptuous Surroundings Vol. I



This arrangement features c. 1800 Indo-Portuguese Niche and a collection of Roman Glass from first to third
century A.D. The candle, 1er Mai by Frederic Malle, contains Magnolia Blooms and other deeper
floral scents. Monsieur Malle is the son of the progenitor of the House of Dior
Parfums, Paris. His candles are Wicked.





If I like what I see and love what I smell, I am 10 times more likely to be a happy camper. Those that know Allan and I , know that we love candles. Our air conditioner at home has had issues which have been caused, either directly or indirectly, by the burning of so many candles! That is an expensive testament to our mild obsession. With so many candles coming and going, we have of course developed our favorites over the years. Allan came to me with the idea for this blog several weeks ago and it quickly took on a life of its own. It went from staging some candles for glamour shots within the showroom, to a full-fledged photo shoot with flowers. It involved five of us in the end, all throwing our efforts into the conception and styling of each vignette. We never can seem to do things half way! Besides, it allowed us to focus some attention on some very deserving friends. Elaine Honea, owner of Les Antiques, provided the amazing items you will see here and also lent her valuable expertise. The amazing flowers were provided by Cebolla Fine Flowers.  Danny Piassick of Piassick Photo photographed the vignettes. 
I loved the process, but the finished product is what makes it worth it. I LOVE these images (and the candles). This presentation of photos may be my favorite ever taken in the showroom. Which is saying a lot!
These images are a present from Allan Knight and Les Antiques to our readers, supporters and friends. Please enjoy!



Han Dynasty artifacts hold court in this setting. Yellow Peonies and miniature limes
play against the Lime Basil Mandarin Candle by Jo Malone.


A 17th C. Spanish Vargueno is the backdrop for this seriously opulent scene.
Abd El Kader, which is reminiscent of Mint and African Tea, is produced by
famous French candle maker Cire Trudon Paris, established in 1643. 


This Spanish Colonial setting seems to demand this candle! Golden Pomegranate by Agraria,
helps lighten this warm-hearted combination of comfortable period accessories.


This superb Candle by Dayna Decker, Jacaronda Blossoms, contains an intoxicating blend pleasing florals.
A rare Han Dynasty Vessel, and a c.1500 Italian Marble Niche help frame
this grouping with an air of elegant importance. 


A warm day in Dallas can become a
hot shoppng day. Beware NorthPark!
Allan and I love shopping for candles. It can be a relatively inexpensive way to fulfill the need to SHOP! It is completely satisfying to find a new candle, cut some flowers from our garden, and make a grouping for the dining table for an additional "treat" to enjoy with dinner or even at the bedside for a night of movies! We also love to dress out the bedside table in our guest room for visitors. Fresh cut flowers, interesting artifacts, a tumbler of still mineral water, a new fabulous candle and our favorite art books all join to entertain and comfort our guests. A small collection is not only beautiful and usable, it makes the guest feel special. It also makes me feel good when I peek in the room right before our guest arrives. The perfection of a mood well done is the artistry of scent, style and tasteful prerogative. It is a chance to create something memorable for a loved one or even yourself!



We love the boxes that our favorite candles come in!



For information on any of these candles, please contact:

Neiman Marcus
NorthPark Center
Marti Barson 214-363-8311 Ext 2507
Jo MaloneAgraria


Barneys New York
NorthPark Center
Thomas Mahan
The Packaging award goes to Jo Malone.
What an outstanding presentation!
469-221-4855
Cire Trudon & Frederic Malle


The Shop by Laura Lee Clark
Brooke Anthony
214-265-7272
Dayna Decker

Special Consideration  
and thanks go to:
Danny Piassick of
Piassick Photo

Cebolla Fine Flowers

Elaine Honea of
Les Antiques
For more information
call: 214-741-2227





Thank you, to everyone who helped to make this blog happen!

article by Cearan Henley
chenley@allan-knight.com
www.allan-knight.com