Friday, November 19, 2010

Encyclopedia of the Exquisite



And while we're on the subject of fanciful things like Galantine of Duck-

Have you read Jessica Kerwin Jenkins' new book
Encyclopedia of the Exquisite: An Anecdotal History of Elegant Delights yet? I just finished it, and it's one of the most charming books that I've read in quite some time. No, a galantine isn't included in Jessica's book, but other flights of fancy and examples of the exquisite are like blancmange, milk baths, origami, and poufs. If this all sounds a little confusing, it's not. Just think of the book as an encyclopedia and history of some of the more delightful and at times curious things in life like confetti, twilight, tea, and red lipstick. I think that that last example might be enough to encourage some of you to read it!

5 comments:

  1. My dear, we must be drinking from the same glass. I received this exquisite little tome last weekend as a gift, and have only had the pleasure of dipping in to it so far. It is a charming book, indeed, and one does appreciate the delightful graphic design of the cover. Reggie

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  2. The illustrations on the cover are charming. Sounds like it would make such a lovely gift, too.

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  3. ABsolutely love this book - I also wrote a review. It is so charming and is a perfect gift for anyone with tons of fun yet elegant tidbits!

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  4. This book looks fantastic!! A celebration of things like this is unique, I love it.

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  5. This is on my WISH LIST and I too adore the cover.....Would love to hear more about it.

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