Issue link: http://papercitymagazine.uberflip.com/i/549779
bsessions AUGUST | PAGE 12 | 2015 During the 17th century, tulips were so rare and prized in Europe that a lone bulb could fetch today's equivalent of $1,250 to $3,500. Tulipomania, as it became known, gave way to other fads among the wealthy, but the craze left us with a singularly beautiful object: the tulipière. These ornate vessels — traditionally made from delftware — were created to force tulip bulbs indoors, and were often found in the homes of European elites. Towering, floor-standing tulipières were particularly extravagant status symbols, and this 61-inch modern-day version by ceramicist Matthew Solomon is no less coveted. Working from his studio in Upstate New York, Solomon's lavish porcelains take weeks to produce. A lawyer turned amateur gardener and artist, Solomon employs specimens from his own garden and others found in historic paintings as inspiration for smaller, complex floral creations in fine white porcelains, glazed in a range of delicate hues. His pieces have been shown at the International Fine Art & Antique Dealers Show at the Park Avenue Armory and the Neuberger Museum of Art. We're not the only ones who are smitten with his work — his collectors include Agnes Gund, Cindy Sherman and Todd Oldham. Flowers $560 to $3,200; floor tulipière, price upon request, at maisongerard.com. Rebecca Sherman