On March 21, the sun crossed over the equator signifying the March Equinox; the beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere. The days are gettting longer and brighter, temperatures are starting to rise, flowers are blossoming, plants are flourishing in time for summer - it's a season of renewal and change! It's not surprising this time of year is the period when we feel most positive.
The origin of the term "spring cleaning" varies, some say it dates back to the ancient Jewish practice of thoroughly cleansing the home in anticipation of the springtime festival of Passover. Some researchers trace the origin of spring cleaning to the Iranian Nowruz, the Persian new year, which falls on the first day of spring. Iranians continue the practice of "khooneh tekouni," which literally means "shaking the house," just before the Persian new year.
Spring symbolism is abundant at
Grays. Here are a few delightful items that will put a 'spring' in your step!
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| A fine and early group modelled by J.J. Kaendler, depicting the goddess Leda seated beside a swan and garlanding flowers around its neck, c1745. Available from Serhat Ahmet Antiques. |
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| Chinese famille verte mustard pot and cover, Kangxi (1662-1722). Available from Anita Gray |
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| Enamel compact with birds on a blossom tree scene, available from Raysil Antiques |
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| Pear shaped pendant set with mint quartz surrounded by floral like multicoloured tourmalines, set in 18ct rose gold. By Isabel Langloise, Paris. Available from Horton London |
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| Russian silver gild and enamel salt dish, c1890 by Vasiliy Agafonov. Available from Tabunov Antiques |
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