Plywood Pachyderm
In a season framed by childhood joy comes the Vitra Eames Plywood Elephant — a sophisticated take on a toy that could double as a signature sculpture. Charles and Ray Eames, known for their famous chairs, created a prototype of a plywood toy elephant back in 1945. The piece never went into production, but was shown off at the Museum of Modern Art in New York in 1946.
Vitra took a chance on running a limited edition cast of the toy in 2007, and has now launched the Eames Elephant into production. The piece is simple and lively, small enough for a toddler to play on but large enough to look like intentional art this festive season. studiopazo.ca
Clowning Around
Personality has never seemed more prolific than in a signature heirloom piece like the limited edition Alessi Candyman Candy Dispenser. The functional sculpture, created by Netherlands designer Marcel Wanders, is part of a collaboration curated by Gabriel Ross and Victoria design firm Bidgood.
The collection aims to capture the significance of heirlooms in building emotional responses to physical spaces. With only 999 numbered copies, you’ll need $2,000 to leave the big top with Candyman — a piece dedicated to the joyful feeling of the circus. grshop.com
Tick Tock
The Nomon Pico Clock has been called the “woodpecker” of the wall décor world. Its small hand mimics a beak, while the large one could suggest an imposing crest.
Whether you see a bird or geometric art, however, the design of this piece far outweighs its function as a clock. Created by artist Andres Martinez, with hands that rotate outside the dial, this time keeper will become a talking point in your home. lumens.com
