When Pantone announced yesterday that it had selected Turquoise (15-5519) as the color of the year for 2010 I wasn’t at all surprised. Touted by the company for its “serene and invigorating” qualities, turquoise has been one of the most sought after colors in decorative arts history starting with the turquoise ground, called bleu céleste, developed in 1753 for Louis XV at the porcelain factory at Vincennes (later Sèvres). In the mid-20th century it was the iconic blue/green palette of Arne Jacobsen’s Room 606 at the SAS House in Copenhagen (below) that captured imaginations. This minty hue has made its mark on more than a few wares—from Pyrex to fine enamel—and below is just a small sampling of the vintage and antique goods that can be found to celebrate the color.
Clockwise from top left: “Pineapples” reproduction wallpaper, American, design c. 1845 (Adelphi Paper Hangings); Chalice form vase by Winslow Andersons for Blenko Glass Company, designed in 1952 (glasshouse); Armchair (one of a pair) by Joaquim Tenreiro, Brasil, 1942 (Sebastian + Barquet); Set of teacups and plates by Pyrex, 1960s (nickandnessies); Enamel and brass lamp by Stiffel, 1960s (Duane); Ceramic tulip vase, American, c. 1960 (thekitschykitchen); Map of France, 1939 (StoriesDivinations); Table lamp, France, 1950s (Sean Berg); Hollywood Regency-style night stand (one of a pair), 1950s (Belvair).
