Jewelry design of the early to mid Eighteen Century, especially in France and England, often featured floral designs known as “giardinetti” (little gardens). Rings set with bejeweled blossoms were quite the fashion.
This darling ring of rubies, rose-cut diamonds and emeralds set in silver and gold is a perfect example of the “giardinetti” rings. Made between 1730-1760, this ring is the epitome of Eighteenth-Century English design.
This is certainly not Mayberry. Aunt Bee, Otis and Opie are nowhere to be found and Barney most assuredly would not approve. Here, we see Andy Griffith as the antithesis of his long-running TV counterpart.
This is the story of Lonesome Rhodes (Griffith), a drifter and criminal who is discovered (quite by accident) in an Arkansas prison by Marcia Jeffries, a radio producer. Jeffries (Patricia Neal) enlists Rhodes (whose real name was Larry) to sing on her radio program. Rhodes is an instant hit and quickly becomes a radio staple. His behavior, at first, displeases the show’s sponsors as he continually mocks their products. He’s fired, but his fan-base is so enormous that he’s quickly sky-rocketed to fame.
With writer Mel Miller (Walter Matthau) and Marcia at his side, Rhodes embarks on a television career and becomes one of the most celebrated popular figures in the country. Insufferable and foul, Rhodes is somehow attractive to people who can’t see his true nature behind his aw-shucks, country persona. Marcia finds herself entangled with Rhodes and soon becomes engaged to him, only to be heartbroken when Rhodes returns from a tour with a new bride (Lee Remick in her first film role).
Rhodes soon becomes involved in politics and as the loathsome man is about to be appointed to an important cabinet position, Marcia realizes she must destroy the monster that she created, and the man she loves.
Andy Griffith gives a brilliant, and truly disturbing performance which makes you wonder who much of his real personality was Andy Taylor and how much was Lonesome Rhodes. The character is said to be based on several similar performers of the 1950’s including Arthur Godfrey, and possibly an evil Will Rogers.
The picture, written by Bud Schulberg and directed by Elia Kazan, is an interesting glimpse into the power of celebrity in both culture and politics and how we, as a nation, allow ourselves to be enticed by corruption. For a look at Andy Griffith in a rare dramatic role and at some exceptional performances, this film is an absolute must.
Last week, Mr. Punch, Julian, Cecil and Barbara were shocked by the appearance of a stranger with a familiar face. While Julian was vaguely aware that another personality lurked within him, Mr. Punch had no idea that a third mind existed. And, this one was a force unto himself. He called himself “Mr. Scaramouche.” A strange, angry, greedy fellow, Mr. Scaramouche behaved in a rather bizarre manner which left Cecil and Barbara quite confused. Mr. Punch and Julian, both trapped within their imaginary shared room, wondered just how to stop Scaramouche from keeping control of their shared body. Julian urged Mr. Punch to look to the puppet play for inspiration. What could he possibly mean? We’ll find out this week.
Meanwhile, Robert and Marjani both had a strange sense that Punch/Julian was in danger. Of course, they themselves were in danger as well. Along with Adrienne, they remained hidden in the French Quarter after running off with Edward Cage’s son. To make matters worse, Marie Laveau arrived with Charles’ murderous brother, Giovanni. As Giovanni confronted Robert, the two men scuffled and Robert ended up stabbing the man. Unsure if he’d murdered Giovanni, Robert stumbled back into the apartment where they were hiding and immediately bemoaned the fact that he’d broken his Hippocratic Oath. When they returned, they found both Giovanni and Marie were gone. What happened to Giovanni? And, will Robert and Marjani be able to get to Mr. Punch/Julian undetected.
Ulrika Rittenhouse had some troubles of her own. She was strangely happy to see Arthur return, but never expected him to drug her with the very same potion she had once used on him and Barbara. Under the influence of the St. Dymphna’s Root, Ulrika became almost cataonic, but remained suggestible enough that she told Arthur and his companion, Gerard, where she’d hidden the diamond. Once Arthur found the Molliner Blue, Gerard wondered what they should do with Ulrika. His answer—kill her, of course.
The coming week of Punch’s Cousin will be filled with many surprises. Come back on Tuesday, May 31 for Chapter 257 of Punch’s Cousin.
Even the most independent of us has been influenced by someone. Whether it was a family member or a celebrity you’ve held in high esteem, your way of thinking, your behavior and your goals have been colored by the lives of other people.
This weekend, remember all those people—especially those who are no longer with us—who have helped to make you the exceptional person that you are today.
This lovely souvenir mug from 1911 is a near twin to another in my collection. While this one also features portraits of Queen Mary and King George V amidst symbols of the Empire (including clover and English roses), the reverse is slightly different.
The reverse of its cousin features an arrangement of roses while this one’s reverse is decorated with the crossed flags of England and the Monarchy. Both mugs are exceptional for their fine detail and brilliant color—fitting for one of the most important reigns in British history.
Since we had such a good time with “Glamour Week” this past week, why don’t we spend another week perusing the most elegant and sophisticated gems, paintings, sculptures and objects that we can find? I’ve got some real whoppers in store for you this week.
We’ll also take a look at the Palaces of Westminster in London and continue to tour the collections of the Victoria & Albert Museum and the Royal Collection. Some Italian, French and Dutch masterpieces will add some sparkle to our journey and some rare Indian works will give us a glimpse into the brilliance of the East.
Of course, Punch’s Cousin will continue and we’ll also see some of the characters and moments that have defined the famous puppet play over the last three centuries. All this, plus, a couple of fantastic classic films and a lot of other fun stuff—all just for you.
We’ll be taking a day off from our usual updates on Monday for Memorial Day in the U.S., but we’ll be back with all of the wonderful things you’ve come to expect from Stalking the Belle Époque. Here’s wishing everyone a restful Memorial Day, May Bank Holiday or whatever else you might be celebrating this weekend!
