There had to be a legitimate reason I have quietly pined for a leather footstool shaped like a pig for the last 11 years. I had have been on to something.
[Omersa leather Yorkshire pig footstool, £370 - £178.]
Of course—a piece of British history! A collector’s item within the London aristocracy! My bloodline makes me love things more absurd than gin, apparently.
Edie loved her Omersa rhino:
In the new (’70s onward) collection, there are some really fringey manes:
[Buffalo, from the American New World line, £630 - £420.]
[Lion from the Out of Africa collection, £554 - £324.]
I met my first leather pig as a kid—that pig lived at Nydrie Stud in Albemarle County, VA. I sat on him, right ways and side saddle. I patted his sloped back. I saw him last time we were down there and he was looking sort of lonely in the basement with the pool table—patiently waiting for a new generation to come sneak beers and listen to Guns ‘n’ Roses. No part of me figured he wouldn’t be sorely missed if I stole him away, though.
Our animals are quirky and humorous and make unique gifts for special occasions: weddings, christenings, special anniversary birthdays. They are equally appreciated by men, women and children. For those who have grown up with an Omersa animal, they have become a very special part of childhood and a highly coveted family heirloom.
That’s why I’m going to get my own. Something I can pass on one day. Because I don’t think any future Wodehouse/Burden generations are going to be clamoring for my collection of antique mink headpieces. I just have to decide on which noble beast I love best.
[Elephant, with his trunk up or down, £588 - £288.]
I’m tempted by the whole Aquatic collection, being born and bred by the beach, but due to their lack of 4-legged evolutionary advancements, they tend to live close to the ground. Er, obviously. And I want my Omersa to primarily be used as a seat.
Hello, gorgeous. Meet the Superking, coming in at 6 ft long.
[Rhino, so big to not so big, £1750 - £288.]
So, it appears I found something I love more than floor pillows. We’ll just have to pawn all our current furniture to afford one.
-Carey
p.s. Speaking of wild African beasts, please, I implore you, if you have not already, just pop onto iTunes and fork over the $10 to buy the Out of Africa soundtrack. You’ll thank me.
My mom has a vintage/antique rhino footstool. So cool.
stake your claim on that rhino!!! need!
My grandparents (aka Manu and Bear) have that leather pig in their amazing basement “winter den” with room divider fireplace and wood paneled walls that hide a bevy of secret rooms (kitchen, bar, bathroom). One of my most favorite places…and pieces.
I have wanted the Jonathan Adler hippo for forever!
http://www.jonathanadler.com/Hippo-3489/?cat=500&initial=