As the holidays approach, design connoisseurs have more grounds to haunt their favorite shops without a twinge of guilt. It’s shopping in the spirit of giving, correct? Whether that giving might entail oneself is a discussion for another day. But this year, we are happy to note that Francophiles will be particularly excited. Emblem Paris—a collection of four French heritage brands—has recently opened its first U.S.-based store in Soho (171 Spring St #2fl).
The intimate boutique space—inspired by a chic jardin in a Parisian hȏtel particulier—showcases the exceptional craftsmanship of the Emblem ateliers: Maison Taillardat, (the brand that tasked to create set pieces for Sofia Coppola’s Marie Antoinette movie); Maison Craman-Lagarde, a marquetry specialist and master cabinetmaker; Vernaz & Filles, specialist in custom gold leaf work and historic restoration; and Manufacture des Emaux de Longwy, the oldest ceramic factory in France.
While we would love to focus on all four houses, we decided to spotlight our favorite holiday gifts from Emaux de Longwy. The history-laden brand’s enchanting savoir-faire when it comes to cloisonné enamel on faience, or glazed ceramic ware, is completely enamoring.
Boule Coloniale + Bougie (Lemon Insect Collection) by Michaël Cailloux
Inspired by 17th century still life’s and Art Nouveau naturalism, Michaël Cailloux created a fertile body of work that includes these finessed beauties.
Pot à Bougie by Nicolas Lequeux
Nicolas Lequeux’s “Art Decool” collection showcases stylized and geometric patterns inspired by the Art Deco period, laden with warm colors that recall the vibrancy of the summer months. It notes Emaux de Longwy’s first collaboration with the designer.
Chou Vase by Pierre Gonalons
With its swirl of sherbet hues and chic French craftsmanship, the Chou vase by Pierre Gonalons is a delightful gift for art and design lovers alike. Fun fact: The vase is currently on exhibit at the Hotel de Sully (a historic mansion) in Paris, making the gift even more splurge-worthy.
City of Stars by Lukas Works
City of Stars evokes the romantic essence of art and its creation, paying direct homage to the magic of Paris and its stars. The artists’ hope was to promote the people who tirelessly fight to inspire us all through the beauty of their work despite the pitfalls of their job.
The Little Prince Oeufs
“The Little Prince” and “The Little Prince and the Fox” decorative eggs not only make for chic stocking stuffers but they pay homage to Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s beautiful, poetic tale, immortalizing it forever in enamel.
Decorative Candles
From left to right: The falling snow on a midnight blue background that adorns the Darksnow candle by Eric Hibelot was inspired by Japanese prints, specifically those of Hasui Kawase; The perfect gift for those who appreciate enamels, the Heritage candle features a traditional display of flowers enhanced by Longwy gold; The Happy Face candle by Nicolas de Waël is alluring in its simple, joyous nature.
Bishop Stool
The hand-enameled Bishop stool, which India Mahdavi recently festooned in a gorgeous pattern, is available in two colorways: Apple Blossom and PrimaDonna.
