New Bella Winter 2020 - Castelli
Our 2020 new collections launch is now available for sampling! We debuted four completely new lines plus fantastic additions to Cabaret and Tappo at the WCAF in January. Enjoy exploring new options in colorful metallics, medieval inspired textures and sophisticated veneers. There’s something to thrill everyone and most importantly to thrill your customers.
The first collection is inspired by traveling through medieval lands - both in person and on our favorite streaming platforms. Introducing Castelli.
CASTELLI
Visiting our Italian suppliers, we whizz along the autostrada passing many brown historical site signs for castelli (castles in Italian). The history and architecture of the places we’re traveling through are an endless source of inspiration. Medieval towers and castles conjure tales of defending maidens from dragons and precious family treasures from marauders. Our new Castelli collection brings some of that historical heraldry and romance to the walls.
Tudor, Gothic and Medieval styles have often had revivals in interior design. Thanks to the popularity of the George R.R. Martin book series Game of Thrones and the resulting epic saga television production, medieval looks are once again influencing mainstream fashion and design.
Castelli are hand-made finishes in metallic tones with applied textures inspired by the patinas and decorative motifs of medieval fortresses. If you would like to bring home a little vibe of the Stark fortress or medieval glamour of the Lannister castle, a mirror or print framed in the Castelli will certainly fit the bill.
The four profiles of Castelli are a 1” wide flat profile, a small stylized lamb’s tongue, a half-round with texture like dragon scales or chain mail and a gentle wide curve.
This curve and flat profiles have a rich and random texture that reminds me of medieval forays into metallurgy and alchemy - like a battle worn suit of armor or the holy grail.
The Dragon’s Tongue profile is a stylized mix between a classical lamb’s tongue motif and the crenallations of a castle keep; both designs which are referenced throughout many periods. Below we show the frame on an Arts and Crafts William Morris image and it also (oddly?) pairs well with vintage prints from the 70s - 80s. Good for updating prints inherited from Grandma’s house.
The Dragon’s Scales half round texture can be paired with art from any period to highlight fish scales or reptilian elements. In our contemporary photograph example the overall texture and contrasting colors bring out the polka dots in the subject’s textile and the round profile accentuates the softness of the human form.
While Castelli can be used on all manner of vintage and modern prints, portraits and photographs, don’t forget it as the perfect choice for your customers GOT fan art. A home is a man’s castle after all and Castelli is a great choice for those who are king or queen of their domain.
Yes, it’s the middle of summer, but we’re just getting warmed up with the winter launch. Tune in for more new 2020 Bella coming soon. As always, contact our helpful customer service staff with inquiries and requests.
Happy framing!
