Bitossi big-heartedness

I had to come out of my "getting ready to list a house" hiatus to share an amazing story of generosity and graciousness that warmed my heart.

Last weekend I listed several free items on Craigslist, and a mid-century lover named Brad picked them up. During the course of our brief encounter, I learned that he and his wife are furnishing their "new"20th century ranch style home...and that they're expecting their third child next week.

It's been my experience that many people pick up free items with hardly a thank you, but Brad thanked me profusely and then emailed me a couple of days later to say that he wanted to drop off a gift to show how appreciative he and his wife were.

Today he was waiting for me when the boys and I got home from school. He had a beautiful gift bag, containing this gorgeous Bitossi lidded dish and matching ashtray.

Bitossi lidded dish and matching ashtray

I think I actually jumped up and down a little. Not only do I love Italian pottery, but those of you who have read my blog for any length of time know that I also collect vintage birds. Brad and his wife couldn't have chosen a more perfect gift for me.

I am so moved by their big-hearted gesture. There really are people in this world who repay a kindness with a kindness of their own, and I happen to think that this spirit is the rule rather than the exception in our community of mid-century collectors.

Black and blue

I have a weakness for smalls, and there are a number of them in the store right now that I wish I could find a place for. Although I usually gravitate to oranges and yellows and greens, all the ones currently grabbing my attention happen to be blue and black. And, with the exception of the Wirkkala piece, they are all quite large. Here are some of the new pieces that are my current favorites.

Bottle picture - 22.5" x 19.5"

Blenko decanter - 22"

Murano vase - 16"

Tapio Wirkkala Kingfisher (also called Ice Diver) - 8"L x 4"H

Murano bird - 9"L x 6"H

Oiva Toikka Interview: Birds

So many people showed an interest in the post about Oiva Toikka birds the other day that I thought I'd treat you to a couple of short interviews that not only give you a look at Toikka the man, but also show you how the birds are made.

Oiva Toikka Interview: Part 1

Oiva Toikka Interview: Part 2

Pronunciation Guide