Rocca di Angera
Rocca di Angera is layered in history. Build in the 11th century it continued to be expanded until the 17th, and remains today in the same family which started this castello 10 centuries ago. Imagine that. My own family on my fathers side dates back to the revolutionary war- my aunt and grandma proudly wearing their DAR badge, a badge that doesn’t go over quite so well when I’m in England ;). My mother’s side of the family is more a mix. An English great grandfather. My grandfather after whom I’m named born on an Indian reservation. I am lucky to know my heritage as not many Americans know fully their story. As a child I grew up in History. My great grandma telling stories of when they first came to Oklahoma in a covered wagon.
But 10 centuries of family history. It hit me. I can’t imagine it. The stories this family must tell. What details have been forgotten? Rewritten? Frescoes by nameless masters captured my attention but a day later that which I find myself thinking about is the medieval garden. I read signs. My friend Sibel was the only one who saw the lizard in the medical garden. Meanings present if you’re open to then. The raised flower beds are filled with herbs and flowers - foods yes for the kitchen but also all medicinal, moreover spiritual.
Everything has a reason. All carefully researched to provide the family with what they need. Peaches close wounds. They aren’t just for eating. The peel of the poppy stalk ground and mixed with honey used as a plaster for wounds. Basil, the most holy of plants, brings fertility- this explains so much about the Italians - but also it’s an antioxidant, and is said to bring wealth. Stability. Vetiver provides protection against negative energy (and just so happens to keep the bugs and rats away). I think about my own home - the plants that grow. My beloved fig tree. Sage. Thyme. Aloe Vera. Delicate roses in the kitchen. My friend @carrieleskowitz just wrote a book Om for the Home… just like the turtles shell provides his source of security our home protects us, feeds us, comforts and covers us. Morning Muses. As I write in my journal #thrartistway with my feet propped up, on my birthday weekend in Lago Maggiore.
OUR SPONSOR:
Republic of Toma offers one-of-a-kind, hand-made semi-precious jewelry. Subjects and motifs chosen for designs come from an imagination and vision that could be defined as a Cabinet of Curiosities in which each piece is inspired by art history, architecture, decorative arts and antiques; and where glamour, elegance, timeless beauty and uniqueness are translated into sculptural, wearable art.
Toma began traveling the world, studying in London and eventually moving overseas and launching her first global business – The Antiques Diva® & Co – the world’s largest antiques touring company offering antique sourcing in 15 countries. She lived 5 years in each Paris and Amsterdam before moving to Berlin for 7 years and then to Venice in 2017.
Influenced by her travels and global design inspiration, what makes Republic of Toma different from other jewelry brands is the connection between Toma’s creations and the world of antiques and design.
A self-professed jewelry addict, Toma says:
“Rings are my favorite accessory. They are the thing I wear for myself. When I wear a ring I see it all day long, typing on my computer, driving my car or enjoying a cocktail."
WEBSITE: www.republicoftoma.fashion
INSTAGRAM: @republicoftoma.fashion