Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Decorating Tips from Nina Part II: Angel Wings




















In this immaculate doll of heaven has been conceived,
            as though
No hands had shaped her, an uninvented innocence be-
            queathing grace
Ring upon ring in haloes all around her, and not remote
            nor kind
But only there, dispensing of all the brought light a total
            larger light.

Even now her wings have assumed such shields of glory
            and the pool beneath
Wheels with such wreaths of shining, the room is gath-
            ered and filled
By her tall and burning stillness and, an actual angel,
            her suspension wars
For a whole minute against all the dark, as if I were a
            child.

from Swedish Angel by Winfield Townley Scott




As promised, I’m writing a series of posts on Nina Hartmann and how her style has influenced my decorating.

Angel wings are the first item on Nina’s list.  She buys vintage wings made by mothers or nuns for children in Christmas pageants in European flea markets.  Tough to find, but easy to make yourself.  I merely bent bailing wire into a wing shapes, sewed scrap cotton net, painted stars with glue, then sprinkled German glass glitter on.

I can’t help feeling a little spiritual with angel wings in the house.  They symbolize freedom and protection. 

They impart intangible ‘heart’ in the home far more than any tchotchkes.

Avoid the $7 12" dollar store wings.  I’ve seen them in magazines but the effect is perfume on a pig (they’re just toys for kids).

Check out handmade wings at:





Until next time, stay shabby!




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Creative Things Thursday at The Vintage Farmhouse  

Feathered Nest Friday at The French Country Cottage  

Farmhouse Friday at LaurieAnna's Vintage Home 

Vintage Inspiration Friday at Common Ground 

Show & Tell Friday at My Romantic Home