Paisley pattern incorporates a motif that, once seen, is never forgotten. It is variously described as a teardrop, tadpole, pine cone, pear, mango and feather, or, with more cultural significance, as a combined cypress tree and flower spray symbolising life and fertility. The motif probably originated in Persia around 2,000 years ago and travelled through central Asia with the name boteh meaning 'flower'. Reconfigured in innumerable ways ever since, whether simplified or elaborated, this distinctive shape is remembered and lives on.
This story is from the September 2022 edition of Homes & Antiques.
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This story is from the September 2022 edition of Homes & Antiques.
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Animal magic
Brought to life in myriad ways, whether printed, woven or embroidered, animals and birds have always been popular motifs in textile design, says Celia Rufey
Bright, bold and BRILLIANT
Small homes don't need to compromise on character. In Nick Kenny's two-up, two-down terrace, natural light, upcycled pieces and colourful accents make a big impact
Petite et chic
Amanda Grant and Kristian Dean's compact apartment encapsulates the essence of continental country house style
A thrifty MIX
Jill De Búrca's home was once a buy-to-let. Now that she's finally moved in, she has begun to furnish it with a quirky combination of antiques, vintage pieces and high street finds
Scholarly SANCTUARY
Statement antiques create drama in this one-bedroom former school hall, owned by antiques dealer Jean Hill
HEIRLOOMS OF THE FUTURE - FLORA JAMIESON
The stained glass artist talks to Dominique Corlett about the influence of the Arts and Crafts movement and capturing the English countryside at its best
Armillary sphere
The roots of the armillary sphere go back centuries but the design has retained its appeal, and sculptor David Harber creates some of today's most spectacular examples, says Jenny Oldaker
Six of the best HERITAGE RAILWAYS
Plying an 84-mile round trip route through the Scottish Highlands (current licensing woes willing), the Jacobite Steam Train starts at Fort William and skirts the tallest mountain in Britain, Ben Nevis, and spectacular beaches on its way to Mallaig.
TRAVEL
48 hours in Stockholm and the best heritage railways.
A PERSONAL PASSION
For opera lovers, Glyndebourne Festival is the highlight of the summer, beloved for its magical setting as well as the calibre of its productions. Celia Rufey steps behind the scenes as it celebrates its 90th birthday
