The Relics and the Refresh: A Lesson in Value

I was reading a beautiful post today from a friend over at Cupola Ridge. She talked about a weather-worn relic she found in a field—something most folks passed by—and how it eventually found a sacred new purpose in her home. It got me thinking about the things we overlook, and the things we think are broken beyond repair.

In my work with Bondgard, I’m constantly drawn to the small and the fragile. I’ll find a lone demitasse teacup tucked away on a dusty back shelf of a junk store. It’s lost its set, its saucer is gone, and most people wouldn't give it a second look. But I see the square joints of its history, the "carved pockets" of its design, and I have to save it.

I think I’m drawn to them because I know what it feels like to be "weathered."

There were moments over these last few years—through the liver failure, the cancer, and even a heart attack just a week after my transplant—where I felt like that forgotten item in a field. I felt stripped of my purpose, unsure of where I belonged now that my body had changed so much.

But as the scripture says in Isaiah, "See, I am doing a new thing."

God has a way of taking what we think is a "disruption" and turning it into a "fresh assignment." I may not be the same man I was before the transplant, but I have been repurposed. My value wasn't lost in the hospital hallways; it was being transformed into something I never expected.

Now, when I’m out scouting with Rod, I don't just see "inventory." I see reminders that losing your original purpose doesn't mean you've lost your worth. Whether it's a fragile cup or a survivor like me, there is beauty in the new life that springs up after the storm.

MCM Peacock Blue Cylinder Vase

 A Splash of Mid-Century Elegance

There is something undeniably magnetic about Peacock Blue glass. It captures the light in a way that feels both architectural and organic. This 10.5-inch cylinder vase is a prime example of the bold experimentation seen in the late 20th century (circa 1970–1999).

Standing on a graceful pedestal base, the vase features a distinctive rigaree band—a decorative ribbon of glass applied to the body while still molten and then crimped into a textured, wavy pattern.

Murano or Empoli: The Italian Connection

While this specific piece is unbranded, its craftsmanship points toward the legendary glassmaking traditions of Italy. Collectors often find themselves debating between two famous origins for pieces of this style:

• Murano: Known for high-art techniques and intricate hand-blown details.

• Empoli: Famous for producing "Verde" and "Peacock" blue glassware that was exported globally during the MCM boom.

Regardless of its specific pedigree, the combination of the sleek cylinder silhouette and the ornate rigaree band makes it a "best of both worlds" piece—merging minimalist form with maximalist texture.

Styling the Cylinder Vase

Because of its 10.5-inch height and narrow 4 3/8-inch diameter, this MCM Peacock Blue Vase is incredibly versatile:

1. Single Stem Statement: Use a single Monstera leaf or a tall Calla Lily to emphasize the vertical lines.

2. Sunlight Showcase: Place it on a windowsill or a glass coffee table where the light can pass through the peacock blue glass to cast colorful shadows.

3. The Grouping: Pair it with shorter, amber-colored glass or clear crystal to create a tiered, colorful display on a mantel or sideboard.

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Product Specifications

Feature	Detail
Material	Hand-blown Glass
Height	10.5"
Color	Peacock Blue
Style	Modern / MCM
Feature	Clear Pedestal Base & Rigaree Band

Nettie Rosenstein Vintage Spotlight: The Copper Pink Lily Pad

 Nettie Rosenstein remains a giant of American mid-century design. While she is legendary for the "Little Black Dress," her jewelry line—often produced by Sandor Goldberger—is where her whimsical side truly shines.

Today, I’m highlighting an exceptional example of her iconic Lily Pad motif: a pair of rare Nettie Rosenstein Copper Pink Jewel Earrings from the 1940s.

Why This Pair Stands Out What makes these earrings special is the uncommon color palette. While Rosenstein often utilized gold-tones, the warm copper finish on these lily pads provides a stunning, earthy backdrop for the vibrant pink jewel accents.

The "lily pad" texture is incredibly detailed—a hallmark of the high-quality craftsmanship associated with the Rosenstein name. These are quintessential 1940s "statement" clips that manage to feel both organic and glamorous.

Collector's Tip When sourcing Nettie Rosenstein, look for the signature "Nettie Rosenstein" or "Rosenstein" stamp. Her pieces are known for heavy plating that resists wear, making them excellent investment pieces for any vintage jewelry collection.

Nettie Rosenstein

 

A Piece of Chicago’s "Golden Age": The Maxim’s de Paris Ashtray

In the world of vintage collecting, there are items that are beautiful, and then there are items that carry an entire era with them. This 4 1/2" square porcelain ashtray is definitely the latter.

A Little Taste of Paris in the Gold Coast

If you lived in Chicago in the 1960s or 70s, Maxim’s de Paris wasn't just a restaurant—it was the destination. Tucked away in the basement of the iconic, Bertrand Goldberg-designed Astor Tower, Maxim’s was a lush, red-velvet-lined replica of the original Art Nouveau institution in Paris.

It was opened in 1963 by Nancy Goldberg (the architect’s wife and a legendary socialite in her own right), and it quickly became the city’s first 5-star restaurant.

The "Chasseur" and the Celebrities

This ashtray features the iconic Maxim’s "Chasseur"—the bellhop in the bright red uniform who became the face of the brand. When you look at this piece, you aren't just looking at a souvenir; you’re looking at something that likely sat on a table while the likes of Frank Sinatra, Audrey Hepburn, or The Beatles dined nearby. (In fact, the Beatles held their famous 1966 "we're more popular than Jesus" apology press conference right there in the building!)

Why It’s a Collector’s Gem

While you can find Maxim's memorabilia from the Paris location, pieces specifically branded "Chicago" are much harder to come by.

• The Design: High-gloss white porcelain with a Mid-Century square profile.

• The History: It represents a time when the Gold Coast was the center of the culinary world.

• The Condition: This estate find has been remarkably preserved, with the red and yellow graphics still as vivid as they were fifty years ago.

This piece is currently available in our eBay shop.

The Heart of the Matter: A 1940s Coro Rediscovery

There is a specific kind of joy in looking at a piece of jewelry you thought you knew, only to see it in a completely different light.

This signed Coro brooch from the 1940s Retro era is exactly that for us. We’ve had it in the vault for a while, but pulling it out today felt like seeing it for the first time. The way the deep Amethyst purple glass center plays against the gold-tone hearts is nothing short of regal.

Why Coro Matters

In the 1940s, Coro was the powerhouse of American costume jewelry. They were masters of the "Retro" style—bold, sculptural, and unashamedly romantic. This piece is a perfect example: five polished hearts forming a flower, set against a circular "halo" base. It’s architectural yet soft.

The "New" View

Maybe it’s the way the light hit it today, or maybe it’s just that we’re finally seeing clearly, but this purple is spectacular. It’s a reminder that vintage pieces aren't just objects; they are moods. This brooch is a "good day" mood.

The Bondgard Touch: Whether you pin it to a velvet blazer or a simple white tee, this is a piece that demands a second look. As always, it will arrive at your door with our signature "class act" packing.

Collector's Tip: Check your package for the Bondgard card! 

 

The "Style Hack": One Piece, Three Ways

Since this Coro treasure features that hidden pendant loop, it’s basically the "Swiss Army Knife" of your jewelry box. Here’s how we’d style it:

• The Modern Choker: Slide a 1" black velvet ribbon through the pendant loop. Tie it closely around the neck for a look that is pure 1940s-meets-Gothic-Romance. The weight of the amethyst glass sits perfectly against the velvet.

• The "Power Lapel": Pin it traditionally to a sharp, oversized blazer. Because of the gold-tone "halo" design, it holds its own against heavy fabrics like wool or tweed without getting lost.

• The Silk Scarf Slide: Instead of pinning through your favorite silk scarf (and risking a snag!), loop a thin chain through the pendant bail and use the brooch as a "weight" to keep your scarf draped perfectly in place.

 Click to View or Purchase

Urban Armor: The Wild Precision of Ted Rossi

At Bondgard Dekor & Art, we don't just look for "vintage"—we look for pieces that have a soul and a bit of a bite. That’s exactly what drew us to this early 2000s era 70s style Ted Rossi NYC cuff. From Engineering to the Runway There is a reason this bracelet feels so substantial. Ted Rossi actually started his career as an engineer before he decided to "smash the boring language of fashion." You can see that technical precision in the way this piece is constructed, but he wrapped it in something much more primal: metallic snakeskin and gold. The "Talon" Clasp The standout feature of this cuff is the sculptural gold Talon. In the 2000s, this was "Urban Armor." It was designed for the woman who wanted to walk into a room and feel untouchable. It’s a mix of Halston-style glamour and a fierce, avant-garde edge that still feels incredibly modern today. Why We Curated It We love the "Small Wrist Struggle" (it’s 6.5" of pure style!). It’s a petite piece that packs a massive punch. Whether you’re a collector of NYC fashion history or just someone who appreciates the feel of genuine exotic skins, this cuff is a masterpiece. The Bondgard Touch: As always, this piece will be packed with the "class act" care we’re known for. And don’t forget—check your package for the Bondgard card. That 15% discount code is yours to use forever and always on all your future treasures! View or Purchase - Here

returning .. and moving forward

i took a break .. from writing .. and realized life does indeed keep moving .. i tried to slow it down .. i pretended the mornings didn't begin .. the days didn't end .. i tried all the tricks .. maybe if i don't care, maybe if i don't change clothes, maybe if i don't shower .. maybe i can pretend .. pretend she is just on a long holiday .. on a vacation that never ends .. i have to ask how long she has been gone .. its a tough bond to break .. that of a younger brother and an older sister .. Sister & bubba .. didn't want to let go ..

wanted to preserve the moment .. stop the clock .. the moment i ceased to care ..

its a long journey back .. after being spun into the past at the moment of death of a loved one ..

i love you Sister, but i gotta let you go ..

if you are reading this .. you out there .. i will be back shortly..

love ya'
troy

and the winner was .. live from Canton

deep apologies for not notifying ya'll of the winner of our FOLK MAGAZINE give-a-way.. long story for the delay ..

and the FOLK MAGAZINE years subscription goes to ..... Maura @ Lilac Lane Cottage .. who has the most inspiring blog .. you must stop in and read her ..

canton has been good this weekend.. the weather is stunning and the crowds are thick .. got to see friends alice hanson and donna leblanc and her daughter.. gonna share a few pics of our booth with you .. enjoy .. sorry so short ..but connection here at canton is really the pitts ..

love love love this beautiful french boudoir lamp ..her wire frame body is so wonderful.. also notice the mirror we did with the vintage rose wallpaper behind the silvering ..

the tablecover barely made it through the first day before selling to a very happy customer .. as did the sweet little tufted chair ..

these pillows also sold the first day ..

as of this evening, the rocker is still available at $59 ..

our new pillow cabinet in use .. it was a pain getting it into the booth, but it has worked so well ..
tomorrow promises to be another beautiful day .. wishing you and yours the best day ever. excited i get to see my aunt bobbie and cousin stacy tomorrow .. yea!

love you..
troy

last chance! GIVE-A-WAY .. FOLK MAGAZINE subscription ..

we are getting the van and trailer loaded and heading to Canton this afternoon .. come see us in the new lock and leave ARBOR BOARDWALK, right off hiway 19 entrance .. we are in space #7 .. second booth on the left .. go to our facebook page and like us and get a coupon for 15% off your entire purchase .. you must print the coupon and bring it with you .. here is the link .. 15% off Coupon ..

PLEASE .. don't forget to add your comment to the FOLK MAGAZINE post and enter your chance to win a years subscription to this wonderful magazine .. here is the original post and where you would need to leave your comment to be included in the drawing .. FOLK MAGAZINE GIVE-A-WAY ..

here is a pic from our November/December show that i never shared ..



look forward to seeing you in Canton ..

I will draw the winner for the FOLK magazine drawing later tonight .. very late ..

love ya'
troy

cantons coming! & our FOLK MAGAZINE give-a-way ..

last minute canton details getting rounded up .. wanted to share a few things ..

a wonderfully fun center table drape i made from an old crocheted table cloth .. then i coffee dyed the entire piece .. i love it ..for set-up at canton, i am draping it over an old round oak dining table and then surrounding it with a few vintage french provincial chairs i have .. then stacking the table with old books and a wonderful lamp ..also isn't that chair the most?

i brought it as far to the floor as i could and accented it with a bottom ruffle that got a top stitch .. at each corner there is a bow ..

close-up view ..

i am loving it ..


this is our new pillow display in the works .. lining it with vintage floral wallpaper ..

don't you love this old rocker .. it was painted brown when we found it .. rod painted it white and then we distressed it .. it is very sturdy and hand made .. you can see where they carved the wood to make the stretchers and the arms and back supports .. very nice ..


a few wonderful old quilt we found and a vintage shaw walker swivel office armchair ..

come see us at canton ..march 1-4 .. at the new arbor boardwalk, space #7 ..

also, don't forget to comment on our FOLK MAGAZINE GIVE-A-WAY post to gain an entry into the give-a-way and a chance to win a years subscription to this wonderful magazine ..

off to gather ..

love ya' Troy

GIVE-A-WAY & gettin ready for canton ..

don't forget about our FOLK MAGAZINE years subscription Give-A-Way .. click on the link to read all about it and enter for your chance to win a years subscription to my new favorite magazine .. FOLK MAGAZINE GIVE-A-WAY..

we are getting things pulled together for canton .. i just completed a couple of pillows that are part of a new line of things i started working on for the upcoming Petticoats on the Prairie show we will be doing in waxahachie, texas on the 17th of March .. click here for details on that show ..

here are my pillows, what do you think? ..

they are shams and fit a standard bed size pillow ..

my favorite one is the one in back ..

i have never tea dyed anything before, and just started learning .. these two will be at Canton ..

as will this chair and a few others ..

and this wonderful little french ottoman .. which i am going to test and take just like it is .. if it doesn't sell, i will re-do it ..

please be sure and comment and on the FOLK post and get our entry into the years subscription of FOLK MAGAZINE .. you can also follow them on facebook ..

you can also follow Junk Exchange on facebook now .. here .. ..

love ya'll ..
Troy

an american story .. FOLK

it doesn't get more American than clearly seeing a vision and setting out to make that vision a reality .. through the long hours, the doubt, the sweat, the stress and the welcome exhilaration when you finally see that dream come to fruition.

it doesn't get more American than standing against the odds and continuing on with your dream..

for that we should salute the folk at FOLK Magazine ..sharing the American story.


i know you have heard of the magazine .. FOLK made its debut in the fall of 2011. i know without a doubt the first image i saw of FOLK had me from the start .. it crept in and warmed my soul on an otherwise dreary fall day ..

(i love that cat!)

i felt a connection, which is what most everyone who have read or thumbed through this magazine have relayed to me .. there is a genuineness to the staff that goes deep .. its about sharing, helping and soothing ..

it's all your creative thoughts on paper and the people there to assure you, you are just as creative as anyone ..

it reminds you it's ok to put peanuts in your coke ..

it's ok to take your shoes off in the company of strangers ..

it's ok to say Yes Ma'am and No Sir ..

it's the sound of a slamming screen door ..

the smell of dill on a summer day ..

the feel of sunlight streaming through the screen on the back porch ..

the wave of a neighbor as he walks past your home ..

FOLK is about US .. You and Me .. share your story.

the kind FOLK at FOLK magazine have presented the chance for you to win a year of FOLK .. to enter this GIVE-A-WAY, just leave a comment here and share the give-a-way with someone ..



I will choose the winner of the years subscription to FOLK Magazine on Wednesday evening Feb 29th .... late .. as I will be setting up at Canton .. come see us ..
Arbor Boardwalk, space # 7 ...

love ya'
Troy

edited to add ..
P.S. Just in case you have not heard about this magazine .. please go LIKE their facebook page and take a look around .. you will adore them just as the current 6000+ likes do .. here is the link .. FOLK MAGAZINE FACEBOOK PAGE ..