Gorgeous galvanized metalware

In 1836, Sorel in France took out the first of numerous patents for a process of coating steel by dipping it in molten zinc after first cleaning it. This method of rust prevention came to be known as ‘galvanizing‘.” Here is a peek of some of the lovely galvanized items we have at the shop. […]

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Gorgeous gazing globes

Gazing balls, mirror balls, or lawn globes are said to have originated during the 13th century created by artisan glass blowers in Venice. A beautiful addition to any garden, they were also believed to ward off evil, or bring good luck.                   Popular in Victorian England, they […]

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French Vineyard and Field crosses

We love these antique French iron crosses circa the 1800’s! They are rare, heavy, and beautifully ornate made of solid cast iron. These crosses were commonly seen in the countryside of France, where they were used in small churches to mark graves, along roads, or as silent guardians of vineyards. They make a stunning addition to any garden, equally lovely […]

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Fleur de lis

The “fleur-de-lis” (flower of the lily) is a stylized lily or lotus flower. Traditionally representing French royalty, this association arose from a legend that an angel gave Clovis, king of the Franks, a golden lily upon his conversion to Catholicism. In the twelfth century, one of the French monarchs began using the fleur-de-lis on his […]

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Rain makes for Rusty stuff

So, with all the rain we have had, there’s reason to worry that things might get rusty…unless of course, we love that rusty, beautifully rustic look! At the Cottage we’ve got an unbelievable assortment of rusty stuff, big and small, suitable for inside or outdoor decor. We especially love the garden stakes in every shape […]

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April showers bring May flowers

With the recent showers and beautiful weather coming, it’s time to start getting our gardens started, preparing the soil and putting in plants…and we have just the thing for you to add color and variety! We have a wide variety of Annie’s Annuals plants, which are specifically suited to our area, drought-tolerant, deer-resistant, etc.

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Busts and bronzes we love

In the early 19th century plaster figure making and bronze sculpture were pretty much two separate enterprises. Italian artists sold inexpensive plaster figures as itinerant tradesmen, but as time went on, some of them became specialists in making molds for sculptures. Plaster figures were used to decorate both grand country homes and more ordinary homes. They […]

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