Through the Looking Glass


On the outside looking in.

All of us are familiar with retail therapy. I practice a little myself, although I don’t always need to make a purchase for it to be a success.

Tramp art frame – there were a few as of last week. I think this is the best, but I love hearts.

Type A, high-strung, over-thinker – what ever you want to call it – it takes its toll.

So, if your engine tends to run a little high, should you seek your solace in the land of florescent lights and hip-hop music? I think not. I go to see Christopher.

A little Hermes-ish table, anyone?

Each of these marble lamps is one of a pair. Both gorgeous.

Christopher Filley used to intimidate me, and I don’t think I’m alone in that, nor do I think it’s entirely unintentional. I might have quipped about genius in the past, but this is the real deal.

A few of the tables were piled high with these gears – they would make great, graphic impact on a table or wall.

Christopher tells me this was made to tranport tea – wood, not ceramic, it would be perfect for a table, but perhaps not sturdy enough for a stool.

Christopher Filley Antiques is cool in vibe and in climate. The bell on the door rings as you enter, and as soon as your shoe hits the terrazzo it’s clear that you are someplace special.

This is beaded and folds over the rod that is holding it so it’s actually a few feet larger than it appears here.


His pieces are both classic and relevant. He doesn’t follow trends, but always seems to have just the thing.

Also one of a pair – stunning in just the right spot.
Christopher usually has an excellent selection of architectural salvage, some piled on the street outside his shop in Seussical fashion. I’ve purchased many lanterns from him; he was an excellent source even before the current craze. I loathe the thought that people are buying from big box retailers and thinking it’s the “same thing.”

Obelisks, mercury glass, shells, bugs, bone. It’s wonderland, and while it makes my heart race a bit, it’s not stress or fret, it’s pure joy.

Apparently, there is no need of technology in wonderland; if you see something you like, call Christopher at 816/561-1124 .

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14 thoughts on “Through the Looking Glass

  1. My kind of place – to inspire one’s old soul. In a world today, obsessed with uber organized homes
    (excuse me, what, do I know where you silver”polly pocket shoe is?) we all must long for a place to “treasure hunt” and think we found it first!

  2. Patricia – that is exactly what is it – a treasure hunt – it’s erally all good, it’s just about how you are defining treasure that day.

  3. Jennifer – yes, lucky, except every time I go somewhere to show off for you guys, I end up buying something. That blue conical light is going into the boys room. I’m sure they will love it – if they ever notice it.

  4. Dear Mrs Blandings, I have long been a fan of the great book “Mr. Blandings Builds a House.” But have never been able to get my hands on a copy of the movie. Then I read further…and discovered the Comeau house, on which my bother in law Steve Malin worked as the architect. My husband and Steve grew up in Plainville. Love the blog.

  5. Rechelle – now I will have to hunt for the book. You would be delighted by the movie – Grant and Loy are heaven to watch. She is just the kind of wife I have always wanted to be. Quick with the snappy comment but never dull with whining and complaining. When I was in New York, my new friend, Wade, commented that it all seems to come back to Kansas. I do believe this is true. I am not surprised in the least that your brother in law worked on the Comeau house (and, it is wonderful) or that you have a Plainville(!) connection. I am so glad you have stopped by – I hope you come back soon.

  6. Splaneyo – it is a great shop, and Chris is a great shop-keeper – I adore them both. Melanie – his shop is in Kansas City at 45th and State Line – a lovely antiques district. There are several shops in this area – three of my all time favorites.

  7. Absolutely wonderful! Thanks so much for sharing. I love your blog, I’ve enjoyed my visit immensely! I will return for more inspiration!

    Melissa

  8. It looks like you had much better luck with the antique shopping this weekend than I did! Thanks for sharing.

  9. I have one of those wooden Oriental thingies that I use between two chairs as a table. I luff it!

    Joni

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