Design Rant #1 In a Series

In my online pursuits of inspiring design and a worthwhile vanity fixture for our master bath, I've come across a “new” phenomenon that truly perplexes me: Absurdly expensive, absolutely ridiculous so-called modern design pieces.

Take, if you will, the following... thing... called "Dead Vase" by Fredrikson Stallard.



It retails for $1,100.00 US.

Um... excuse me? How much?

The product description reads as follows: This deflated porcelain cadaver comments on form and function. The decadent, voluptuous form is created by deliberately exaggerating the pitfalls of ceramic production. The creation of a partial vacuum inside the piece during the manufacturing process causes uncontrollable folds and ruptures, making each piece unique.

Individually handmade limited edition of 200.

Um... I repeat... excuse me?

So, let me get this straight: You want me to pay eleven hundred dollars for something that anywhere else would be considered a "mistake"? You'd have a better chance of selling me a half-eaten liverwurst sandwich on moldy bread. (Mr. Stallard, feel free to run with the idea. I suggest a starting price of $300. $400 if you include a floppy pickle spear.)

I do, though, have to give the writer props: he/she actually makes the piece sound intelligent. Too bad it's anything but.

It simply amazes me. The fact that this piece is currently in stock, though, does not.

Next time: When your "kitchen guy" relocates to Panama before he's finished.