Origins of Ukiyo-e Ukiyo-e, which translates to “pictures of the floating world,” originated in Japan during the Edo period (1603-1868). The term “floating world” refers to the transient nature of life, especially in the pleasure districts of cities like Edo (modern-day Tokyo) and Kyoto. Ukiyo-e began as black and whiteRead More →
Introduction Sometimes at Wildcard Curiosities we acquire an item that really challenges our knowledge. The Apocrypha Book studied by Reverend Alex Fletcher was one such item. We thought it would be an idea to share our research with you in our latest blog. It is an interesting read whether youRead More →
The Origins of the Anglepoise Lamp The Anglepoise lamp, a timeless and iconic piece of industrial design, has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Its inception can be attributed to the ingenious work of George Carwardine, a British automotive engineer and designer. Carwardine was inspired toRead More →
News Flash This blog is being written in October 2023. Wildcard Curiosities has an online “virtual” presence by way of social media platforms and our website in which we have a shop front via eBay. We also had 2 large spaces in a physical shop, Freemen’s Common Antiques Centre basedRead More →
Introduction James Bond, the iconic fictional British spy, has captivated audiences for decades with his thrilling adventures and signature gadgets. One of the most beloved aspects of the James Bond franchise is the collection of vehicles featured in the films. Diecast cars, meticulously crafted scale models, have played a significantRead More →
Setting the Foundation for Efficient Antiques Stock Management The art of managing antique stock goes beyond mere storage; it’s about preserving history, maintaining value, and ensuring accessibility. This chapter lays the groundwork for an organized and efficient antique stock management system. 1.1 Defining Your Inventory Categories: Start by categorizing yourRead More →
The history of wicker baskets dates back thousands of years, with their origins deeply intertwined with human civilization’s early development. Wicker, a type of flexible material usually made from natural fibers like reeds, grasses, or rattan, has been used by ancient cultures across different continents to create functional and decorativeRead More →
Introduction The history of safety razors dates back to the late 19th century when men began seeking more convenient and safer alternatives to the traditional straight razor. The earliest safety razors featured a handle and a protective guard to minimize the risk of accidental cuts. In 1880, the Kampfe BrothersRead More →
The Dawn of Industrial Lighting The history of industrial lights traces back to the late 18th century when the Industrial Revolution transformed manufacturing processes and work environments. Before the advent of electric lighting, industrial spaces relied on various lighting sources such as oil lamps, gaslights, and candles. These early lightingRead More →
Introduction to Antiquing in the UK Antiquing, or the art of searching for and collecting antiques, is a popular pastime in the United Kingdom. With its rich history and cultural heritage, the UK offers a treasure trove of antique shops, markets, and fairs for enthusiasts to explore. In this blog,Read More →