My first vivid memories of Axel Vervoordt were of tall arched rooms
in a Venetian palazzo glittering beneath its crystal chandeliers, 19th century
frescos, the classical Palladian style loggia a watery refection in the dining
room’s muli-paned mirrored wall. Baroque sconces, curvy French and
Italian antiques were offset by spare tables, and simple slipcovered shapes.
Centuries echoed along the shadows of the walls. Over the years I’ve always
adored how Axel juxtaposes precious antiques with simple hand worked pieces…
the unifying concept being one of authenticity. In his latest book, Wabi Style,
Axel defines and celebrates this ancient Japanese concept of simplicity,
authenticity, reveling in the beauty and transience of imperfection.
Since my early years I have always been compelled by the belief that
all beauty is imperfect, incomplete, and impermanent-as transitory as
life itself.
The photography of Laziz Hamani captures minute details from roughly hewn
wood tables…and humble pottery…to the lilting script on hand made paper…
The art of human endeavor…the connection with the natural world…
The pages are matte, the images simple and strong…
A departure from Axel’s earlier books, there are no bits of rococo,
rouge, no flicker of gilt…but every gorgeous shade of metal and earth with subtle
mossy greens and sky blues thrown in for measure…
The darkness has depth and texture…
revealing the complexity behind simple…
The lightness is ethereal…
I have learned that the original spirit of Wabi evolved
out of the fundamental values prized by Zen monks who sought solace
and contentment in simplicity, purity, restraint, and humility.
A deeply philosophical piece of visual poetry…
It will resonate for all of us that appreciate
that one of a kind find, that piece with a connection,
who are intrigued by and treasure the flaws…
Wabi Inspirations
Axel Vervoordt
I already have my copy of Wabi Inspirations and love it! As I get older I find I appreciate a less cluttered room it says more and it’s more soothing. I highly recommend this book to everyone! Wonderful post!
I could’nt more agree what you say about Axel Vervoordt. He was the first here in Europe who “mixed” rough with…..
Actually I visited his Chateau in Belgium in the late 1990’s and bought a special table for one of my clients.
Again dear Trish – your post is just simply good!
xxxkarin
This is wonderful, Trish. Such beautiful photos. xx’s
Thank you for highlighting Axel Vervoordt’s new book. I find that if I view objects as works of sculptural art with their own particular soul, then I seem to need far less. Thank you for reminding me.
Thank you Trish for the beautiful pictures and your words.
Trish,
While some of the above rooms are a little spare for my taste, the simplicity of the lines and the rustic wooden tables are so appealing. Thank you.
Karen
I know what you mean Karen. Its a bit like being in an art gallery. But it reminds me to keep editing, save for something special rather than “the deal”.
I love your taste!
While I love the beautiful lines of this austerity, as a Riotous rococo girl…I say bring on the gilt! *winks* Vanna
When we visited his Kannal and Castle in Belgium, it changed my whole aesthetic. I have appreciated the ‘small wonders’ of a corner of a broken wall or building even as a child…..he has shown us how he made his appreciation grow up.
Gorgeous! The texture and colors of the wall in the first photo are amazing!
I met AXEL once in his castle in Belgium!I have a photo with him in my living room!He is a GORGEOUS MAN and very gracious.
His studio in Belgium I got to tour.Iam one of the lucky ones!His sense of style is like no other!