#THE COLOURS AND THE CLASSIC ALLIGATOR ART STYLE | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

joffyworld · 1 month ago

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OH ALLIGATOR YOU GAVE US TWO TO THREE MEALS HERE

FINISHED THAT ONE COMIC I POSTED ABOUT ALMOST 30 FULL DAYS AGO?? I FINALLY REMEMBERED IT EXISTED AND FINISHED IT. I HAVE SO MUCH I WANT TO SAY ABOUT MY LAMB NOW THAT THEY'RE FINALLY THE MAIN CHARACTER IN A LONG COMIC, BUT it went on forever so I put it below the cut.

While we're above the cut, I have a bunch of REALLy good asks I'll be trying to draw for soon. But keep an eye out for a poll coming up soon...cause now that this is out of the way, I want another big project to have in the background and I have Big Ideas for Big Angst Comics........

OH YOU CLICKED THE THING, NICE. OKAY. SO:

Have I ever talked about how my lamb works?? I need to do more with them but I'm a bishop enjoyer to an obsessive degree. The lamb operates on the same kind of level as kallamar did during the breakdown comic, but on a more permanent, more stable level. After being told to hide for their whole life, to never show their face and not even being given a name......being beheaded by four gods and recruited by a fifth forgotten one who claims they're the Chosen One just made the lamb think "OH! None of this is real. My brain wanted me to feel important before I died, and this is my dying vision. Okay, I'll play along >:)" and now they're the equivalent of when you beat a game and replay it while picking the funniest/worst options to see what'd happen.

USUALLY their decisions are clouded by the assumption that nothing they do actually matters, but they're still......a person who held things dear and had standards while they were alive. So they love hijinx, but aren't like leshy who launches people out of catapults for fun, or kallamar who sees mortals more as lab rats than people living their own lives. They'll do some things for the lolz but their humanity definitely shows through when dealing with someone like shamura.

I think they went into the bishop slaying quest wanting to hate shamura, assuming they were an irredeemable antagonist that deserved to be vanquished. They were told by narinder that shamura was the big bad, so they figured there was nothing to it beyond that. But then they actually MET shamura, who wasn't at all what they were expected to be. Every other bishop is just like "RAHH I'LL KILL YOU" when you meet them, and then shamura is the only person who actually tells you about what happened, speaks to you like a person and not an obstacle, and doesn't seem bothered about the fact they're going to die. So that got them thinking....hmm...perhaps these people are slightly more realistic than I anticipated. Still gonna kill them tho

I'm not sure the lamb hates the bishops, especially after the realization that they're a fucked up family acting out in desperation rather than logic. When you're born into circumstances you know will eventually doom you (like being a sacrificial lamb destined for slaughter) you kinda...lose the ability to care after a while. They don't really *forgive* the bishops for the slaughter of their people, and definitely enjoy bullying them and kicking them around now that they're powerless mortals- but the initial horror of being born to die has subsided. Now that they're presumably in some kind of afterlife, and have better, more fun things to move onto now that they're the ruler of everything- it's not worth it to hate those five forever.

I think *because* the lamb has only been a god very briefly and still remembers mortality well, that's why they're the one god who does things "because they're funny" but also is respectful of people like shamura. It's like when you're playing GTA V and you accidentally drive over a dog while trying to pull over and look at it closer. Is it a real dog?? No but you're still gonna feel bad!! So like I said, in the lamb's mind they have NO reason to care about any of these people or show them mercy, but the fact that they're not as detached from mortality as the bishops were makes them a benevolent god. I'll be doing a comic about this very subject in the future and it WILL be depressing >:)

Also. Unrelated. But if you read this far, I feel the need to justify why heket and leshy suddenly have boobs in this comic. I'm sure it's obvious that I headcanon the gods don't have sex characteristics cause like...why would they need those. I don't want to draw that. But as MORTALS they would probably need to have all their organs intact to function properly, so pour one out for shamura + leshy who probably completely forgot they were transgender until they woke up in mortal bodies. NOT SURE HOW KALLAMAR WOULD REACT, I think they're more just horrified they lost all their tentacles

I debated doing another silly comic about the concept but I don't want this blog to get too raunchy, so instead have this epic ms paint art (I CAN MAKE THESE JOKES, I'M AFAB TRANS I DESERVE THIS ONE THING)

#THE COMIC?????#THE COLOURS AND THE CLASSIC ALLIGATOR ART STYLE #OH MANNNNNN #EATING THAT LAMB #JUST THROWING THEM AGAINST THE WALL SO THEY BOUNCE AND SQUEAK #THE LORE TOO???????#YESSSSS #EATING SO GOOD #THANKS ALLI #BEAUTIFUL AS ALWAYS #YIPPEEEEEEE

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legacytaught-archived · 2 years ago

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fill this with what you most associate with your muse in each of these ( some slightly unusual ) categories!

spice : cayenne, ginger, nutmeg and paprika.

weather : the tension before a big storm, dark clouds and that smell of rain in the air.

primary colour : teal.

colour of the sky : the blend of colours at twilight from the mixture of the light colours going into dark.

animal - crossing animal : alligator.

magical power : adoptive muscle memory ; the ability to replicate any physical action after seeing it performed once.

shoe : vans old skool platform.

houseplant : sansevieria trifasciata hahnii - birds nest snake plant.

blade weapon : samurai sword.

school subject : english literaure, world history, biology.

social media : instagram & tiktok.

makeup product : liquid eyeliner, sharp af winged eyeliner is their jam.

candy : oat cookies, sometimes with chocolate chips in, mainly with blueberries.

tangible fear : being caught in a physical / emotional abusive situation again.

shape : square of a tournament mat.

travel : rollerskates or a classic car.

art style : photography.

historical periods : 1970s & 1980s.

mythological creature : dragon.

piece of stationary : stickers.

three emoji combination : 😝💕🌈.

celestial body : alpha centauri.

rom com archetype : the hopelessly in love with the wrong person.

tagged by : @opponentcompel & @dduquettetagging : @oncefroze / @queencvbra / @allvalley ( nina ) / @pathpain / @laevndrs / @marchellas / @pointmoskowitz / and you !

#iv. headcanons : 𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝗶’𝗱 𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗯𝗲 𝗮 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝗻𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝗺𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗻 𝗱𝗶𝗲 𝘂𝗻𝗮𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗲.#i. dash games : 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗮 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆 𝗮 𝗴𝗮𝗺𝗲?#( okay i love this ngl )#( this was fun )

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royalreef · 4 years ago

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fill this with what you most associate with your muse in each of these ( some slightly unusual ) categories !

spice: vanilla, pink sea salt, mint, rosemary weather: hot summer days with friends at the beach, cloudy days spent inside with hot chocolate, thunderstorms out at sea as the raging waves beat against cliffsides, hurricanes primary colour: red, blue colour of the sky: pink and red sunrises, the darkest midnight skies where you can see every star animal crossing animal: alligator, cat, axolotl magical power: black magic, divination, animal speech/control, a siren’s song shoe: kitten heels, sandals, nothing but an anklet or piece of jewelry houseplant: marmino balls, venus fly traps, flowering vines blade weapon: rapier school subject: choir, swim team, biology, history, psychology/sociology social media: instagram makeup product: eyeshadow, lipstick candy: gummy sharks, bubblegum, saltwater taffy, fancy chocolates, candied violets tangible fear: birds, family, strangers, heights ice cube shape: crushed method of long-distance travel: yachts, sports cars, limos, chariots, carriages, cruise ships art style: classical oil paintings, classical marble statues, highly detailed scientific illustrations historical period: classical rome, medieval europe, the romantic era, the far-off and not so far future, the distant past, deep time mythological creature: mermaids, sirens, sea serpents, dragons, krakens, doppelgangers piece of stationary: parchment, expensive calligraphy pens, quills, stickers three emoji combination: 👑🐠🔪 celestial body: neptune, mars, the moon, the space between stars rom com archetype: the disney princess, the mysterious noble, the girl with the dark past, femme fatale

tagged by: nobody! i stole this tagging: @candyredmuses, @pxppinmolly, @ceratioid, @lvsblnd, @closetedcuriosity, @vibinjustice, @insatiableinedia, @pasttorn, @roskaarotta, @rotaidevxr, @woerended, @roborights, @empatheticxangel, @bigveee, @necrodanger, @mindsmelded, @grave-risen, @preparetodie, @fullofschmidt, @oberlinempire, @spicyred, and you, reading this!!

#Most secret royal advisor || OOC #Seahorse games || Tagged #(( EHEHEHEH this one was fun!!!#(( now heres to hoping tumblr doesnt mangle the @'s #(( its been doing that again

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peinde · 6 years ago

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AESTHETIC.

What are your muse’s aesthetics? BOLD any which apply to your muse! Remember to REPOST! Feel free to add to the list!

[ COLOURS ] ~ burgundy. red. crimson. scarlet. maroon. mahogany. copper. amber. chocolate. brown. tawny. tan. bronze. brass. orange. gold. saffron. yellow. chartreuse. spring green. lime. mint. green. olive. forest. turquoise. teal. cerulean. blue. navy. cobalt. periwinkle. indigo. pewter. plum. purple. magenta. fuchsia. lilac. lavender. pink. coral. peach. ivory. cream. white. silver. grey. smoke. charcoal. ebony. black. pastels. vibrant. matte. metallic. muted. dark. light.

[ BODY ] ~ mutations. claws. fangs. wings. tails. feathers. webs. spikes. scales. fur. stripes. spots. freckles. acne. bruises. scars. scratches. gashes. lashes. wounds. amputations. burns. brands. teeth. gums. tongues. lips. beards. mustaches. cheeks. noses. ears. eyes. eyelashes. eyebrows. hair. heads. neck. shoulders. collarbones. arms. elbows. wrists. hands. fingers. breast. back. ribs. abs. belly. hips. curves. butts. legs. thighs. knees. shins. ankles. feet. toes. nails. sweat. spit. tears. blood. heart. stomach. lungs. liver. veins. guts. bones. spine. muscle. skin. feline. canine. masculine. feminine.

[ WEAPONS ] ~ bites. fists. sword. dagger. spear. arrow. bow. crossbow. hammer. shield. poison. guns. axes. throwing axes. whips. knives. throwing knives. pepper sprays. tasers. machine guns. slingshots. katanas. maces. staffs. wands. powers. magical items. magic. rocks. mud balls. bombs. missiles. boomerangs. lethal pets. lasers. tridents.

[ MATERIALS ] ~ metal. gold. silver. platinum. pewter. titanium. iron. steel. copper. bronze. brass. tin. bismuth. diamonds. pearls. rubies. garnets. sapphires. emeralds. jade. peridots. alexandrite. opal. topaz. jasper. quartz. rose quartz. smoky quartz. amethyst. citrine. fluorite. amber. malachite. turquoise. lapis lazuli. sodalite. pyrite. labradorite. moonstone. petrified wood. wood. paper. parchment. hemp. canvas. burlap. oils. skin. muslin. rayon. faux. wool. fur. lace. leather. skins. suede. corduroy. silk. satin. chiffon. velvet. denim. linen. cotton. charcoal. clay. stone. rocks. flint. asphalt. brick. granite. marble. dust. rust. glitter. sand. dirt. mud. smoke. ash. carbonate. rubber. synthetics. nylon. polyester. plastic. glass. porcelain. bone. shells. coral.

[ NATURE ] ~ grass. leaves. trees. bark. flowers. roses. daisies. forget me nots. tulips. lavender. petals. thorns. seeds. hay. roots. ocean. pond. river. stream. waterfall. creek. meadow. forest. desert. tundra. savanna. rain forest. tropical. jungle. marsh. moors. swamp. plains. hills. highlands. caves. underwater. coral reef. beach. waves. space. clouds. mountains. fire. lava. ice. frost. water. air. earth. rain. snow. wind. moon. stars. sun. heat. cold. steam. lightning. sunlight. moonlight. dawn. dusk. twilight. midnight. sunrise. sunset. dewdrops. shadow. tornado. hurricane. water spout. thunder. hail. twisters. humidity. dryness.

[ ANIMALS ] ~ birds. penguins. eagles. owls. falcons. vultures. hawks. swans. parrots. parakeets. doves. pigeons. ducks. robins. cardinals. blue jays. bluebirds. blackbirds. crows. ravens. magpies. mockingbirds. flamingos. ostriches. seagulls. albatross. peacocks. condors. finches. pelicans. chickens. geese. quail. bats. sheep. cows. buffalo. deer. hedgehogs. elephants. horses. giraffes. cats. lions. tigers. pumas. cheetahs. jaguars. foxes. dogs. wolves. coyotes. bunnies. mice. rats. monkeys. apes. bears. pandas. polar bears. snakes. iguanas. chameleons. alligators. crocodiles. turtles. lizards. frogs. toads. whales. dolphins. fish. sharks. stingrays. octopus. lobsters. crabs. bugs. spiders. ants. moths. butterflies. flies. maggots. roaches. ladybugs. beetles. cicadas. dragonflies. fleas. termites. leeches. worms. snails. mosquitoes. werewolves. unicorns. pegasus. dragons. dinosaurs.

[ FOODS/DRINKS ] ~ pepper. salt. sugar. honey. syrup. caramel. candy. bubblegum. mints. candy canes. gumdrops. lollipops. chocolate. vanilla. cinnamon. ice cream. cake. cookies. brownies. biscuits. pie. tarts. lemonade. soda. champagne. wine. brandy. rum. whiskey. vodka. tequila. sake. beer. soju. gin. crema de cacao. cocoa. latte. coffee. tea. spices. herbs. fruit. apples. oranges. lemons. cherries. strawberries. blueberries. raspberries. cranberries. watermelons. cantaloupes. bananas. coconuts. grapes. kiwi. pomegranates. tomatoes. vegetables. potatoes. cucumbers. carrots. turnips. onions. leeks. celery. broccoli. cabbages. lettuces. roots. nuts. white meat. red meat. raw meat. veal. pork. chicken. beef. venison. fish. lobster. oysters. pizza. ambrosia. pasta. sandwiches. soup.

[ HOBBIES ] ~ music. piano. flute. woodwinds. whistles. drums. guitar. cello. synthesizer. violin. lute. harp. fiddle. harmonica. trumpet. brass. singing. composing. folk. classical. bluegrass. blues. jazz. big band. pop. country. rock. punk. metal. electronica. hip hop. reggae. ska. rap. vinyl records. cassettes. cds. soundcloud. itunes. spotify. art. sculpting. pottery. painting. watercolour. drawing. pastels. charcoal. sketching. graffiti. printing. inking. collecting. fighting. martial arts. self-defence. boxing. fencing. sumo. wrestling. jousting. paintball. lazer tag. duelling. hunting. fishing. climbing. weight lifting. training. sports. football. football (usa). rugby. baseball. cricket. lacrosse. volleyball. basketball. tennis. badminton. skating. cycling. sailing. rowing. hiking. running. gymnastics. dancing. ice skating. hockey. reading. writing. cooking. sewing. acting. photography. video games. horseback riding. gardening. smithing. shopping. traveling. movies. theatre. libraries. books. magazines. playing cards. poker chips. chess. dice. science.

[ STYLE ] ~ nudism. perfume. cologne. piercings. tattoos. henna. body paint. war paint. make up. lipstick. mascara. eyeliner. eye shadow. powder. beauty marks. blush. nail polish. lingerie. fishnet. pantie-hose. socks. stockings. leggings. long johns. under armor. corsets. sports bras. bustles. camisoles. blouses. button ups. tunics. vests. waistcoats. leather jackets. ponchos. sweaters/jumpers. hoodies. skirts. jeans. kilts. breeches. scarfs. cravats. ascots. belts. sashes. gloves. heels. sandals. platforms. tennis shoes. penny loafers. jordans. slippers. boots. cowboy boots. rain boots. army boots. armor. justaucorps. trench coats. capes. cloaks. burqa. suits. tuxedos. kimonos. saris. sundresses. gowns. jewelry. earrings. noes rings. lip rings. tongue piercings. belly rings. gauges. eyebrow rings. necklaces. pearl strings. leis. bracelets. bangles. cuffs. watches. friendship bracelets. rings. pendants. lockets. broaches. boutonnieres. pocket watches. cufflinks. hats. crowns. circlets. flower crowns. helmets. hijabs. turbans. baseball caps. cowboy hats. brocade. doublet. gorget. bracers. masks. cowls. braces. glasses. sun glasses. eye contacts. pyjamas.

[ MISC ] ~ balloons. bubbles. candles. battle. war. diplomacy. peace. money. power. clocks. photos. mirrors. pets. diary. fairy lights. madness. music. sanity. sadness. happiness. optimism. pessimism. loneliness. family. friends. assistants. co-workers. enemies. loyalty. smoking. drugs. kindness. love. sex. hugs. duality. sin. lust. greed. wrath. envy. sloth. gluttony. pride. virtue. chivalry. honour. piety. charity. diligence. chastity. gentleness. aggression. romance. hatred. grief. pity. success. bitterness. sorrow. joy. fear. anger. good. evil. relativity. vampirism. sapphism. life. birth. time. death. illusion. silence.

#long #glubbing 38)#fis)(canons

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daintblue · 6 years ago

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aesthetic.

What are your muse’s aesthetics? BOLD any which apply to your muse! Remember to REPOST! Feel free to add to the list!

[ MATERIALS ] ~ metal. gold. silver. platinum. pewter. titanium. iron. steel. copper. bronze. brass. tin. bismuth. diamonds. pearls. rubies. garnets. sapphires. emeralds. jade. peridots. alexandrite. opal. topaz. jasper. quartz. rose quartz. smoky quartz. amethyst. citrine. fluorite. amber. malachite. turquoise. lapis lazuli. sodalite. pyrite. labradorite. moonstone. petrified wood. wood. paper. parchment. hemp. canvas. burlap. oils skin. muslin. rayon. faux. wool. fur. lace. leather. skins. suede. corduroy. silk. satin. chiffon. velvet. denim. linen. cotton. charcoal. clay. stone. rocks. flint. asphalt. brick. granite. marble. dust. rust. glitter. sand. dirt. mud. smoke. ash. carbonate. rubber. synthetics. nylon. polyester. plastic. glass. porcelain. bone. shells. coral.

[ ANIMALS ] ~ birds. penguins. eagles. owls. falcons. vultures. hawks. swans. parrots. parakeets. doves. pigeons. ducks. robins. cardinals. blue jays. bluebirds. blackbirds. crows. ravens. magpies. mockingbirds. flamingos. ostriches. seagulls. albatross. peacocks. condors. finches. pelicans. chickens. geese. quail. bats. sheep. cows. buffalo. deer. hedgehogs. elephants. horses. giraffes. cats. lions. tigers. pumas. cheetahs. jaguars. foxes. dogs. wolves. coyotes. bunnies. mice. rats. monkeys. apes. bears. pandas. polar bears. snakes. iguanas. chameleons. alligators. crocodiles. turtles. lizards. frogs. toads. whales. dolphins. fish. sharks. stingrays. octopus. lobsters. crabs. bugs. spiders. ants. moths. butterflies. flies. maggots. roaches. ladybugs. beetles. cicadas. dragonflies. fleas. termites. leeches. worms.snails. mosquitoes. werewolves. unicorns. pegasus. dragons. dinosaurs.

[ STYLE ] ~ nudism. perfume. cologne. piercings. tattoos. henna. body paint. war paint. make up. lipstick. mascara. eyeliner. eye shadow. powder. beauty marks. blush. nail polish. lingerie. fishnet. pantie-hoes. socks. stockings. leggings. long johns. under armor. corsets. sports bras. bustles. camisoles. blouses. button ups. tunics. vests. waistcoats. leather jackets. ponchos. sweaters/jumpers. hoodies. skirts. jeans. kilts. breeches. scarfs. cravats. ascots. belts. sashes. gloves. heels. sandals. platforms. tennis shoes. penny loafers. jordans. slippers. boots. cowboy boots. rain boots. army boots. armor. justaucorps. trench coats. capes. cloaks. burqa. suits. tuxedos. kimonos. saris. sundresses. gowns. jewelry. earrings. noes rings. lip rings. tongue piercings. belly rings. gauges. eyebrow rings.necklaces. pearl strings. leis. bracelets. bangles. cuffs. watches. friendship bracelets. rings. pendants. lockets. broaches. boutonnieres. pocket watches. cufflinks. hats. crowns. circlets. flower crowns. helmets. hijabs. turbans. baseball caps. cowboy hats. brocade. doublet. gorget. bracers. masks. cowls. braces. glasses. sun glasses. eye contacts. pyjamas.

[ MISC ] ~ balloons. bubbles. candles. battle. war. diplomacy. peace. money. power. clocks. photos. mirrors. pets. diary. fairy lights. madness. sanity. sadness. happiness. optimism. pessimism. loneliness. family. friends. assistants. co-workers. enemies. loyalty. smoking. drugs. kindness. love. sex. hugs. duality. sin. lust. greed. wrath. envy. sloth. gluttony. pride. virtue. chivalry. honour. piety. charity. diligence. chastity. gentleness. aggression. romance. hatred. grief. pity. success. bitterness. sorrow. joy. fear. anger. good. evil. relativity. vampirism. sapphism. life. birth. time. death. illusion. silence.

#' DASH GAMES. '#' AESTHETIC --- HOW TO FEEL DIFFERENT ; HOW TO FEEL NEW ; LIKE SCIENCE FICTION BENDING TRUTH. '

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torixus · 5 years ago

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What Igbos Need to Know About Isiagu Symbol

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In this essay, I use “akwa isiagụ” as metaphor to illustrate that Igbos have not done exactly well to preserve their language and culture. I posit they have abandoned their unique cultural symbol. That they are now parading a symbol of foreign popular culture as their foremost emblem. But I also present perspectives that might ignite a quest for self-rediscovery.

Akwa isiagụ is the clothing fabric patterned with motifs showing fierce-looking lion’s head and mane. Some designs show a less stern lion’s head, with two or three cow horns besides it.

Since the last 50 to 60 years Igbos have managed to portray this fabric design as their classic cultural emblem. In fact, as something of a totem. Igbo chiefs and nze and ọzọ title holders use it to make their ceremonial gears. At native marriage ceremonies and similar cultural events, isiagụ garments of different colours and styles grace the day. Igbo people feel a certain sense of pride when they dress in isiagụ attire. Even non-Igbos regard isiagụ as being to Igbos what the tartan is to Scots. Or the yarmulke is to Jews. Such is the impression, that when they are identifying with or participating at an Igbo traditional practice (eg taking an Igbo chieftaincy), they dress in isiagụ gear. Recent examples include President Buhari, Fayose, Zuma.

But this is an imported foreign popular culture. Neither the lion nor the lion icon has any significance in Igbo cultural foundations. Indeed, using the descriptor ‘isiagụ’ to refer to a lion’s head motif is wrong use of the word “agụ”.

Incorrect Language

Agụ is not lion in Igbo. Agụ is leopard. Folks have written about this before, and I've discussed in other forums on the subject. It is pitiful that it remains a source of confusion to many adult Igbos. There is just little understanding of Igbo origins and names of the feline (cat species) animals. You hear all manner of names that contradict biogeography. Like, “agụ is lion, andọdụm is tiger”. Or, “agụ is lion, and leopard is edi abalị”.

But let’s clear this.

Just as jaguars and cougars are found only in the Americas, tigers inhabit only in Eurasia. They do not belong to the fauna (native animals) of sub-Saharan Africa. Ancient Igbos did not see nor know about tiger, so did not have an indigenous name for it.

Edi or edi abalị is the African civet. One of the 38 viverridae species, it is slightly smaller than the leopard. A carnivore, no doubt, but it is timider, less agile and far less specialised in opportunistic hunting. It has a broadly cat-like general appearance, but its muzzle is more pointed than that of a typical feline. Leopard has distinctive camouflage spots that help it to use forest canopies for cover, enhancing its abilities for surprise hunting, But the African civet typically has black and white spots.

A nocturnal creature that sleeps for about 20 hours a day, the ancient Igbos knew the edi abalị very well. Which is why I[[gbos still use “edi” as metaphor to refer to a person who sleeps a lot. The leopard is bold, agile, versatile, and highly admired in Igbo cultural foundations. But edi is loathed and associated with negativity, because it smells and relies more on con and coy to lure its preys. That’s also why in Igbo language “edi aghụghọ” is a metaphor that references a deceptive person.

Knowledge of the Igbo language structure will indicate agụ is not lion. Many Igbo words were created from metaphorical use of existing words. To form names for creatures or objects, Igbos often devised a two-word metaphor comparing what is sought to be named to an another named object or creature. For example, ụlọ is house, and school is “ụlọ-akwụkwọ” (house for books), while hospital is “ụlọ ọgwụ” (house for medication).

Leopard - agụ – preys on mammals and has spots on its furs. That is why the wall gecko, that preys on insects and has spots, is called agụ ụlọ (ie house leopard). And the crocodile, that preys on water creatures and has patches that resemble the leopard’s spots, is called agụ iyi (leopard of the waters). Similarly, the palm genet, a small mammal that resembles the squirrel but unlike the squirrel has spots on its furs, is called “agụ nkwụ”. In contrast.] the lion has no spots on its furs. The lion’s fur is generally plane brown.

The leopard is Igbo animal totem

Being about 3 times the size of a leopard, the lion is stronger and sometimes even preys on the leopard. The Igbo say “ọdụm na-egbu agụ”. Despite this, the lion has no special recognition in Igbo cultural systems. Ancient Igbos likely did not even have any or much contact with lion as a species. For whereas leopards inhabit in rainforests (although they are very adaptable and thrive in other vegetations), lions inhabit mainly in savannah or grasslands. Savannah vegetation do not exist (and likely never existed) in Igboland. Igboid areas sit generally on lowland rainforest.

A lion can occasionally stray into a rainforest or can refuge there if persecuted in its usual habitat. It must have been in such circumstances that Igbos came to know about the lion. Yet that was not enough to diminish their fascination for the leopard, a beast with which they had contended for thousands and thousands of years.

It should be noted that whilst leopards operate solitarily, lions are the most social of the cat species. Lions operate in close-knit social groups called “pride”. Ethologists (scholars of animal behaviours) have observed that this sociality makes the lion a better communicator than other big cats. But it means lions roar frequently and easily broadcast their presence and emotions. Conversely, a leopard’s solitary lifestyle makes it less detectable, and more perceptive and reactive to intrusion. For this reason, its senses of vision and hearing are sharper than those of a lion. Ancient Igbos witnessed this first-hand. They saw how a leopard, hiding stealthily amongst forest canopies, would detect the slightest animal or human movement, and chase and pounced savagely.

In forest environment, a lion has little chance to fight down the more agile leopard. A lion’s size and weight render it less agile to climb high. But a leopard can climb to the top an iroko tree in less than 10 seconds. Leopard is probably the only big mammal that can descend a tree head first. It uses its long tail to maintain perfect aerodynamic balance.

With top average speed of about 80 km per hour, lion is faster than leopard. But it can only run for very short bursts and needs to be close to its prey before starting an attack. But the leopard can run for far longer stretches, at average top speed of about 58 km per hour. A leopard can make a single leap of over 6m (20 ft) horizontally and can jump up to 3 m (9.8 ft) vertically. And it is a powerful swimmer. Although its vision is sharpest in the dark, it can equally be eagle-eyed in the day.

Incredibly versatile, leopard hunts on land, up on the trees and in water. On the trees it can out-manoeuvre specialised climbers and jumpers, including monkeys and baboons. Leopards have been observed leaping and snatching a monkey with a bite mid-air and regaining grip of tree branches. That is, it successfully launches mid-air strike from a treetop and lands back on the tree. It goes into rivers and streams where it overpowers creatures like alligators, and hauls them off the water, all the way up a tree.

A silent predator, when discreteness will give it advantage, it can be elusive. It has a pad of tissue in the flat of its claws that act as silencers when it walks. It can literally hide in plain sight. When it tucks itself in between the fork of tree branches, it just blends with the tree trunk. It can create optical illusion to deceive its prey, including humans. A Leopard will coil its head and tail into its body and crouch flat on the ground appearing like dry wood lying about. Very patient. If its target are animals in a troop, it can hold its cool and then attack the last of the troop from behind.

When persecuted by humans a leopard is more likely to fight back than is a lion. And it does not target one out of a group. It will attack one person after another. Reason the Igbo say “ofu agụ na-achụ mba” (a single leopard can sack a town).

For thousands of years the Maasai people of Kenya have practiced the art of emerging from hiding to scare lions away from their kill and take it home for meet. But a leopard will drag its kill in its mouth and climb a tree. It climbs a tree carrying in its mouth a carcass far heavier than its own size. Animals like bull, giraffe, antelope. In those days, it would attack someone’s goat or sheep and drag it in its mouth deep into the forest and up on a tree.

The lion lacks these amazing abilities. In terms of general efficiency and productivity as jungle hunters, the leopard beats the lion, by many miles! Indeed, scientists have determined that, pound for pound (ie adjusted for differences in size and weight) the leopard is the strongest of all the big cat species.

It was for these reasons that the ancient Igbo revered the leopard as their totemic animal for strength, agility, boldness, and courage. And that is also why Igbo language is littered with similes, metaphors, adages and proverbs that use agụ to illustrate positive energy and abilities. Like “omekagụ”, “agụnwa”, etcetera. And it is why many Igbo families and communities proudly took their names and sobriquets after agụ. Like “Umuagụ, Amagụ Dimagụ, Eziagụ, Duruagụetc.

Today, as urban dwellers we can look down on the leopard. But to the Igbos of those jungle days, a snarling leopard on the loose was literally nature’s force unleashed. Every hamlet had a chant or cry that was used to alarm the community when a leopard was sighted. In my own area the chant was “ ọ wụ agụ o!”. ( it is a leopard o!). Social codes dictated that a person who heard the cry also repeated it, till the entire community was alerted. And until the leopard was killed or confirmed to have returned to the deep forests, usual daily activities were suspended. Children and women would not go the streams to fetch water. No one went to the farms nor led their sheep out to graze. Able bodied men were then organised, in groups, to track down the leopard. And think of it. Those men did not have guns. They went with spears, bows and sticks. Combating the leopard in these situations was an act of extraordinary bravery and patriotism - risking one’s life for the safety of the community. That explains why the person who eventually killed the leopard instantly became a hero and given the honorific “Ogbu Agụ”.

And eating a leopard meet was a once-in-a-generation-experience. Till today Igbos use the metaphor “ọ bụanụ agụ?” (is it a leopard meet?) to question the value of a highly priced or scarce commodity. Of course, the leopard skin was dried and kept by the leopard killer. He and his descendant would display it with pride for hundreds of years afterwards. And legend has it that reputable native doctors harvested the leopard’s bile/gall and used it to prepare the most potent charms or medicines, that warriors drank to boost their bravery and ferocity during intertribal wars.

Very perplexing was this elusive and powerful animal to ancient Igbos, that they even considered it a mysterious creature. A reason many Igbo dialects added the suffix “mystery” or “invisible” (“owo”, “owu”, “owuru” or “awolo”) to its name. Many areas call it agụ owuru – ie, leopard of mystery, mysterious leopard, or leopard that suddenly appears and disappears. Igbo metaphysics believed that some men acquired powers to transform to leopard. To assume the nature and characteristics of a leopard, even for a short period, was considered an attainment of a transcendental and superior state of being.

Indeed, ancient Igbo cosmology explained the entire universe as being some mystical leopard persona. The weather system and visible changes in the skies were said to be a leopard, the sky leopard. The thick clouds that formed in the sky before rainfall were its shimmering eyes just waking from sleep. The movement of tick clouds was the movement of the leopard in its marauding character. The sparks of lightening that came before a thunder were the leopard’s flashing eyes. The thunder was its voice snarling in anger and ready to pounce. The heavy rains were its urine gushing with a force typical of its strength. And bright day was the sky leopard fully awake, with eyes wide open.

The lion symbol is not originally Igbo

This portrayal of the lion as symbolic cultural icon of the Igbos is only recent. It is driven by the influence of modern media and foreign popular culture. We watch a lot of animal documentaries these days and read a lot of books that continue to inform us the lion is the king of the beasts. True! But they don’t tell us about the king of our forests.

Today in global popular culture (eg children cartoons, films, etc) we are taught to be like the lion. Because throughout histories and in many parts of the world the lion image has been used in stories, artworks, coats of arms, logos and advertisements to depict strength, ferocity, power, confidence and success. The bible and other major religious texts also contain the lion symbolism. And so, the Igbos yielded – completely! We abandoned our equivalent animal totem, and even had to distort our language as a result.

Yet Igbo folklore is filled with stories that reference “agụ” as the king of animals. First generation Igbo intellectuals had no misunderstanding that agụ was leopard. And they were acutely aware of its significance in the Igbo culture and worldview.

In Onuora Nzekwu’s classic novel Eze Goes to School (published 1963), the ravaging beast which held the people of Ohia hostage, which Eze’s father killed but later died from the wound it inflicted on him, was a leopard, not a lion. Anezi Okoro’s 1966 novel ‘The Village School’ featured an intriguing student. Ismael was popular amongst his mates because his father was a reputed hunter who killed a leopard and took the title “The Leopard Killer”.

In 1950 Cyprian Ekwensi published a novel entitled ‘The Leopard's Claw’. Chinua Achebe later published a short story with the title "How the Leopard Got Its Claws". He narrated an Igbo folktale featuring leopard as the king of the animals. Achebe’s other book ‘Anthills of The Savanah’ narrates the incident when the leopard, the king of the forest, was to kill the tortoise and how the tortoise scattered sand and grass. And in of ‘Arrow of God’ he masterfully devised an English translation of a popular Igbo proverb ‘Agụ aghaghị ịmu ihe yiri agụ” as “what the leopard sires cannot be different from the leopard”.

These men did not talk about the lion.

Chukwumeka Ike’s novel "The Bottled Leopard" explores Igbo metaphysics in the context of interpersonal strife during primal times. It tells the story of how men acquired metaphysical powers and transformed to leopards to terrify their neighbours or attack their animals.

Wago the protagonist of ‘The Great Ponds’ (the second novel of Elechi Amadi's trilogy) was revered in the community because he killed a leopard. He was even hailed by the honorific "The Leopard Killer". What surprised the members of the community was that the brave Leopard Killer later committed suicide, something they deemed an act of cowardice.

Gabriel Okara, an Ijaw man, was educated at Government Collage Umuahia and worked in Enugu for many years. He wrote the famous poem ‘The Drum and the Piano’. Romanticising primal African life, he used the imagery of a “leopard snarling about to leap and the hunters crouch with spears poised”.

If you’ve read the works of late great poet Christopher Okigbo, you will see repeated references to the leopard. In a manuscript drafting the poem ‘Land of Our Birth’ which he intended to be Biafra’s anthem, Okigbo wrote of Eastern Region’s (mostly Igbos) resolve to found its own republic: “This leopard is now unchained”.

Defunct Biafran Armed Forces published and circulated a periodic newsletter/bulletin to engage the masses. It was not for nothing that the brand name of that bulletin/newsletter was “The Leopard”. Indeed, the coat of arms of that republic, which was the same used by Eastern Region, proudly featured a charging leopard.

Stay true to who you are

Leopard skin (“akpụkpọ agụ”) was the totemic body-covering material in Igbo cultural foundations. In this modern era, if any fabric should be an emblem of Igbo culture, it is leopard skin fabrics. This lion symbol expresses nothing unique about the Igbo.

Totemic symbols embody and express the spirit, history, character and worldview of a people: what they have been through on their road to civilisation. How they see themselves in the world. The standards and qualities they aspire to, collectively and as individuals.

It is not difficult to see parallels between the leopard’s characteristics and core Igbo character: There is the leopard’s individualism – that Igbo man’s tendency to take his own destiny in his hands. The leopard is vigilant and opportunistic. The Igbo are wired to identify and take advantage of changing dynamics. Think of the spirit of enterprise and consider the leopard’s ability to perform feats that are out of proportion to its size. What about the leopard’s versatility? The Igbo excel in any enterprise they truly apply their energy to. And then adaptability. The Igbo have not only survived different challenging conditions and thrived in different regions and environments. They have tuned adversities to opportunities and made huge successes out of nothing.

No imperial influence has forced the Scots to abandon the tartan. Nor has centuries of persecution swayed Jews to discard the yarmulke. The leopard was also the animal totem of the Zulu. That proud people of South Africa remain proud of it. Why then did the Igbo falter?

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#Opinions

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molariscorde-blog · 8 years ago

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Aesthetics

What are your muse’s aesthetics?

BOLD any which apply to your muse! Remember to REPOST! Feel free to add to the list!

[ BODY ] ~ mutations. claws. fangs. wings. tails. feathers. webs. spikes. scales. fur. stripes. spots. freckles. acne. bruises. scars. scratches. gashes. lashes. wounds. amputations. burns. brands. teeth. gums. tongues. lips. beards. mustaches. cheeks. noses. ears. eyes. eyelashes. eyebrows. hair. heads. neck. shoulders. collar bones. arms. elbows. wrists. hands. fingers. breast. back. ribs. abs. belly. hips. curves. butts. legs. thighs. knees. shins. ankles. feet. toes. nails. sweat. spit. tears. blood. heart. stomach. lungs. liver. veins. guts. bones. spine. muscle. skin. feline. canine. masculine. feminine.

[ MATERIALS ] ~ metal. gold. silver. platinum. pewter. titanium. iron. steel. copper. bronze. brass. tin. bismuth. diamonds. pearls. rubies. garnets. sapphires. emeralds. jade. peridots. alexandrite. opal. topaz. jasper. quartz. rose quartz. smoky quartz. amethyst. citrine. fluorite. amber. malachite. turquoise. lapis lazuli. sodalite. pyrite. labradorite. moonstone. petrified wood. wood. paper. parchment. hemp. canvas. burlap. oils skin. muslin. rayon. faux. wool. fur. lace. leather. skins. suede. corduroy. silk. satin. chiffon. velvet. denim. linen. cotton. charcoal. clay. stone. rocks. flint. asphalt. brick. granite. marble. dust. rust. glitter. sand. dirt. mud. smoke. ash. carbonate. rubber. synthetics. nylon. polyester. plastic. glass. porcelain. bone. shells. coral.

[ ANIMALS ] ~ birds. penguins. eagles. owls. falcons. vultures. hawks. swans. parrots. parakeets. doves. pigeons. ducks. robins. cardinals. blue jays. bluebirds. blackbirds. crows. ravens. magpies. mockingbirds. flamingos. ostriches. seagulls. albatross. peacocks. condors. finches. pelicans. chickens. geese. quail. bats. sheep. cows. buffalo. deer. hedgehogs. elephants. horses. giraffes. cats. lions. tigers. pumas. cheetahs. jaguars. foxes. dogs. wolves. coyotes. bunnies. mice. rats. monkeys. apes. bears. pandas. polar bears. snakes. iguanas. chameleons. alligators. crocodiles. turtles. lizards. frogs. toads. whales.dolphins. fish. sharks. stingrays. octopus. lobsters. crabs. bugs. spiders. moths. butterflies. flies. maggots. roaches. ladybugs. beetles. cicadas. dragonflies. fleas. termites. leeches. worms. snails. mosquitoes. werewolves. unicorns. pegasus. dragons. dinosaurs.

[ FOODS/DRINKS ] ~ pepper. salt. sugar. honey. syrup. caramel. candy. bubblegum. mints. candy canes. gumdrops. lollipops. chocolate. vanilla. cinnamon. ice cream. cake. cookies. brownies. biscuits. pie. tarts. lemonade. soda. champagne. wine. brandy. rum. whiskey. vodka. tequila. sake. beer. soju. gin. crema de cacao. cocoa. latte. coffee. tea. spices. herbs.fruit. apples. oranges. lemons. cherries. strawberries. blueberries. raspberries. cranberries. watermelons. cantaloupes. bananas. coconuts. grapes. kiwi. pomegranates. tomatoes. vegetables. potatoes. cucumbers. carrots. turnips. onions. leeks. celery. broccoli. cabbages. lettuces. roots. nuts. white meat. red meat. raw meat. veal. pork. chicken. beef. venison. fish. lobster. oysters. pizza. ambrosia. pasta. sandwiches. soup.

[ HOBBIES ] ~ music. piano. flute. woodwinds. whistles. drums. guitar. cello. synthesizer. violin. lute. harp. fiddle. harmonica. trumpet. brass. singing. composing. folk. classical. bluegrass. blues. jazz. big band. pop. country. rock. punk. metal. electronica. hip hop. reggae. ska. rap. vinyl records. cassettes. cds. soundcloud. itunes. spotify. art. sculpting. pottery. painting. watercolour. drawing. pastels. charcoal. sketching. scrapbooking. graffiti. printing. inking.collecting. fighting. martial arts. self-defence. boxing. fencing. sumo. wrestling. jousting. paintball. lazer tag. duelling. hunting. fishing. climbing. weight lifting. training. sports. football. football (usa). rugby. baseball. cricket. lacrosse. volleyball. basketball. tennis. badminton. skating. cycling. sailing. rowing. hiking. running. gymnastics. dancing. ice skating. hockey. reading. writing. cooking. sewing. acting. photography. video games. horseback riding. gardening. smithing. shopping. traveling. movies. theatre, libraries. books. magazines. playing cards. poker chips. chess. dice. science.

[ STYLE ] ~ nudism. perfume. cologne. piercings. tattoos. henna. body paint. war paint. make up. lipstick. mascara. eyeliner. eye shadow. powder. beauty marks. blush. nail polish. lingerie. fishnet. pantie-hoes. socks. stockings. leggings. long johns. under armor. corsets. sports bras. bustles. camisoles. blouses. button ups. tunics. vests. waistcoats. leather jackets. ponchos. sweaters/jumpers. hoodies. skirts. jeans. kilts. breeches. scarfs. cravats. ascots. belts. sashes. gloves. heels. sandals. platforms. tennis shoes. penny loafers. jordans. slippers. boots. cowboy boots. rain boots. army boots. armor. justaucorps. trench coats. capes. cloaks. burqa. suits. tuxedos. kimonos. saris. sun dresses. gowns. jewelry. earrings. noes rings. lip rings. tongue piercings. belly rings. gauges. eyebrow rings. necklaces. pearl strings. leis. bracelets. bangles. cuffs. watches. friendship bracelets. rings. pendants. lockets. broaches. boutonnieres. pocket watches. cuff links. hats. crowns. rings. pendants. lockets. broaches. boutonnieres. pocket watches. cuff links. hats. . circlets. flower crowns. helmets. hijabs. turbans. baseball caps. cowboy hats. brocade. doublet. gorget. bracers. masks. cowls. braces. glasses. sun glasses. eye contacts. pyjamas.

#tbt (about poppy)

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crippledwing-blog · 8 years ago

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aesthetic.

What are your muse’s aesthetics? BOLD any which apply to your muse! Remember to REPOST! Feel free to add to the list!

[ BODY ] ~ mutations. claws. fangs. wings. tails. feathers. webs. spikes. scales. fur. stripes. spots. freckles. acne. bruises. scars. scratches. gashes. lashes. wounds. amputations. burns. brands. teeth. gums. tongues. lips. beards. mustaches. cheeks. noses. ears. eyes. eyelashes. eyebrows. hair. heads. neck. shoulders. collar bones. arms. elbows. wrists. hands. fingers. breast. back. ribs. abs. belly. hips. curves. butts. legs. thighs. knees. shins. ankles. feet. toes. nails. sweat. spit. tears. blood. heart. stomach. lungs. liver. veins. guts. bones. spine. muscle. skin. feline. canine. masculine. feminine.

[ MATERIALS ] ~ metal. gold. silver. platinum. pewter. titanium. iron. steel. copper. bronze. brass. tin. bismuth. diamonds. pearls. rubies. garnets. sapphires. emeralds. jade. peridots. alexandrite. opal. topaz. jasper. quartz. rose quartz. smoky quartz. amethyst. citrine. fluorite. amber. malachite. turquoise. lapis lazuli. sodalite. pyrite. labradorite. moonstone. petrified wood. wood. paper. parchment. hemp. canvas. burlap. oils skin. muslin. rayon. faux. wool. fur. lace. leather. skins. suede. corduroy. silk. satin. chiffon. velvet. denim. linen. cotton. charcoal. clay. stone. rocks. flint. asphalt. brick. granite. marble. dust. rust. glitter. sand. dirt. mud. smoke. ash. carbonate. rubber. synthetics. nylon. polyester. plastic. glass. porcelain. bone. shells. coral.

[ ANIMALS ] ~ birds. penguins. eagles. owls. falcons. vultures. hawks. swans. parrots. parakeets. doves. pigeons. ducks. robins. cardinals. blue jays. bluebirds. blackbirds. crows. ravens. magpies. mockingbirds. flamingos. ostriches. seagulls. albatross. peacocks. condors. finches. pelicans. chickens. geese. quail. bats. sheep. cows. buffalo. deer. hedgehogs. elephants. horses. giraffes. cats. lions. tigers. pumas. cheetahs. jaguars. foxes. dogs. wolves. coyotes. bunnies. mice. rats. monkeys. apes. bears. pandas. polar bears. snakes. iguanas. chameleons. alligators. crocodiles. turtles. lizards. frogs. toads. whales.dolphins. fish. sharks. stingrays. octopus. lobsters. crabs. bugs. spiders. moths. butterflies. flies. maggots. roaches. ladybugs. beetles. cicadas. dragonflies. fleas. termites. leeches. worms. snails. mosquitoes. werewolves. unicorns. pegasus. dragons. dinosaurs.

[ HOBBIES ] ~ music. piano. flute. woodwinds. whistles. drums. guitar. cello. synthesizer. violin. lute. harp. fiddle. harmonica. trumpet. brass. singing. composing. folk. classical. bluegrass. blues. jazz. big band. pop. country. rock. punk. metal. electronica. hip hop. reggae. ska. rap. vinyl records. cassettes. cds. soundcloud. itunes. spotify. art. sculpting. pottery. painting. watercolour. drawing. pastels. charcoal. sketching. graffiti. printing. inking. collecting. fighting. martial arts. self-defence. boxing. fencing. sumo. wrestling. jousting. paintball. lazer tag. duelling. hunting. fishing. climbing. weight lifting. training. sports. football. football (usa). rugby. baseball. cricket. lacrosse. volleyball. basketball. tennis. badminton. skating. cycling. sailing. rowing. hiking. running. gymnastics. dancing. ice skating. hockey. reading. writing. cooking. sewing. acting. photography. video games. horseback riding. gardening. smithing. shopping. traveling. movies. theatre, libraries. books. magazines. playing cards. poker chips. chess. dice. science.

[ STYLE ] ~ nudism. perfume. cologne. piercings. tattoos. henna. body paint. war paint. make up. lipstick. mascara. eyeliner. eye shadow. powder. beauty marks. blush. nail polish. lingerie. fishnet. pantie-hoes. socks. stockings. leggings. long johns. under armor. corsets. sports bras. bustles. camisoles. blouses. button ups. tunics. vests. waistcoats. leather jackets. ponchos. sweaters/jumpers. hoodies. skirts. jeans. kilts. breeches. scarfs. cravats. ascots. belts. sashes. gloves. heels. sandals. platforms. tennis shoes. penny loafers. jordans. slippers. boots. cowboy boots. rain boots. army boots. armor. justaucorps. trench coats. capes. cloaks. burqa. suits. tuxedos. kimonos. saris. sun dresses. gowns. jewelry. earrings. noes rings. lip rings. tongue piercings. belly rings. gauges. eyebrow rings. necklaces. pearl strings. leis. bracelets. bangles. cuffs. watches. friendship bracelets. rings. pendants. lockets. broaches. boutonnieres. pocket watches. cuff links. hats. crowns. circlets. flower crowns. helmets. hijabs. turbans. baseball caps. cowboy hats. brocade. doublet. gorget. bracers. masks. cowls. braces. glasses. sun glasses. eye contacts. pyjamas.

Tagged by: @cablesmith!! thanks for this!! Tagging: @bonpourvous, @sophistiqve!!

#▶ ▌ɪᴛ ᴡᴀs ʟɪᴋᴇ ᴛʜɪs... (headcanon.)

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watchilove · 5 years ago

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Zenith launched last year the El Primero A384. It is not a vintage-inspired piece but the accurate reproduction of the 1969 launched piece. Under the full name of Zenith Chronomaster Revival El Primero A384, the historic watch was reborn in the contemporain. A year after its launch, we took the El Primero A384 for a spin. This is my presentation and thoughts about it with a touch of historical moments, a feminine note and a huge gallery.

Hands-on Zenith Chronomaster Revival El Primero A384

1969 was one of the years that defined the modern history. And not only for Zenith but for humanity. For the best understanding of the socio-political environment of the A384’s launch, I will add some of the most important events that happened that year.

The watch reviewed today is one of the prototypes available for the press and brand’s representative. It was a loan from Zenith through Corrina Fromm Communication. This timepiece bears the marks of one year of hard work, meetings and many, many wrists. In this article, you can find how the El Primero A384 survived its first year.

The first thing that came in mind, thinking about the ’60s, was the Pop Art culture. And since we talk about that movement, one must remind about Andy Warhol. So Diana and I jumped in the car and visited Museum Brandhorst, in Munchen, where a great collection of Warhol works are exposed.

Note: many of the lifestyle pictures were especially retouched in Lightroom to evoke the ’60s and ’70s. The art presented in the pictures is exposed at Brandhorst. Please visit the museum if you got the chance.

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The tonneau-shaped case

Zenith Chronomaster Revival El Primero A384 comes in a steel case that replicates in detail the 1969 launched piece. The only exterior differences being the domed sapphire crystal on top instead of acrylic glass and the exhibition case back.

The 37 mm case is decorated with a series of polished and brushed surfaces. The face presents a sun-rayed fine brushing. The caseband and the side of the lugs have a vertical brush and the lugs faces are mirror polished. The edge of the case is generously chamfered on left and right and was mirror polished. A great set of details. In 1969, but also today, the El Primero A384 stands out with its original design.

Zenith Chronomaster Revival El Primero A384 and page 247 of the “Die erfolgreichsten Armbanduhren: Marken & Modelle” by Herbert James

Intermezzo

1969 was a great year! Some excerpts from Wikipedia: Led Zeppelin, the first Led Zeppelin album, is released in the United States; The Beatles give their last public performance, of several tracks on the roof of Apple Records, London (featured in Let It Be (1970 film)); The Boeing 747 “jumbo jet” is flown for the first time.

In front of “Mustard Race Riot” by Andy Warhol, 1963

El Primero A384 comes with generous pushers and a relative flat crown. The polished details are lovely and the Zenith star on the crown steals the show. The view is balanced and pleasant by all standards. The handling is exceptional. The hands-on video above can offer a glimpse of how easy is to set and use.

The Zenith Chronomaster Revival El Primero A384 is well behaved on the wrist. Its classic dimensions are a good fit for most of the wrist. The watch can be equally masculine and feminine. It is so iconic that transcends any idea of genre.

Intermezzo

1969 was a colourful year. The hippy movement, the bell-bottoms and boots, jeans and leather, strong colours in an unusual combination. The year when the very first U.S. troop withdrawals are made from the Vietnam War. Apollo program Moon landing: at 10:56 pm ET (02:56 UTC July 21) Apollo 11‘s lunar module Eagle lands on the Moon’s surface. The Woodstock Festival is held. (Excerpts from Wikipedia).

Panda dial and an exceptionally strong Lume game

The three registers configuration is no secret. The panda dial with outer tachymeter scale is another classic. El Primero is an icon. But what amazed me from the very beginning was the strong and lovely luminescent used. Even in the lightest shade, the hands and indexes popped out.

El Primero A384 uses a central chrono hands, a 30-minutes counter at 3 o’clock and a 12 hours totaliser at 6 o’clock. The 9 o’clock subdial displays the running seconds. The 36,000 vph movement is capable to measure and display 1/5 of a second. A revolution back then, still an exceptional chronograph now (considering the modern watches uses 28,800 vph movements).

The applied hours’ markers and the hands are manufactured in steel with a rhodium-plating. They were faceted and coated with Super-LumiNova®SLN C3. The eligibility is exceptional.

The black sub-dials are slightly recessed and decorated with a circular pattern. The white indexes and numerals are transfer printed. The baton hands are varnished in white. The outer register, dedicated to the tachymetric function presents the same white transfer printing on a black background.

The date window is placed between 4 and 5 o’clock. It uses a “black on white” configuration. Since the date window bites from the chronograph’s register, the outer side of the window was decorated with silver indexes. In this way, the chrono readout is not compromised in that area.

On of the cutest detail of the dial, besides the red varnished chrono hand is the Zenith star. Together with the hand-written style El Primero, it governs the top of the dial.

Intermezzo

Remember Scooby-Doo – in 1969 airs its first episode on the CBS network in the United States. Sesame Street airs its first episode too. The Beatles release that year their Abbey Road album (for which that iconic picture was taken earlier that year). The first ARPANET link is established (the progenitor of the global Internet) and the first Concorde test flight is conducted. (Excerpts from Wikipedia)

El Primero and the revolutionary 5Hz calibre

Zenith Chronomaster Revival El Primero A384 is powered by the El Primero 400 Automatic. The movement is the modern descendent of the original El Primero movement. It brings the experience gathered by the brand in the last half of the century.

The column-wheel chronograph movement is generously displayed. The blued finish makes it stand out. The movement is nicely decorated: sandblasted surfaces, brushing, perlage, Geneva waves, polishing and thermal blueing. The entire mechanism in action can be seen in the hands-on video.

The skeletonised rotor-weight is decorated with the brand’s name and logo with black accents. The 5Hz movement is capable of 50 hours of power reserve. More pictures can be found in the Gallery section below.

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Final impressions

Zenith Chronomaster Revival El Primero A384 is a strong appearance. It stands out with its original design and clear vintage look. The design code left deep marks in the hearth of enthusiasts. Zenith’s decision to revive this model was well received. Having such a historical model with a modern hearth and attractive price is not a small thing. Of course, the purists will search and argue for the original model. But I am more than happy with this modern version.

Zenith Chronomaster Revival El Primero A384 on the wrist and Andy’s Warhol Flower paint (series started in 1964)

Zenith Chronomaster Revival El Primero A384 is a mix of its sobriety and fun. Just like 1969, the year of its initial launch. Black and white and a touch of red versus war (Cold war, Vietnam) and Woodstock. El Primero was a revolutionary step in watchmaking, just like the Concorde and Boeing 747 were…

El Primero A384 was launched in full pop art era. Its revival was born 50 years later and the art evolved too. Now we have digital art and thing people couldn’t even imagine in the ’60s and ’70s. But Zenith Chronomaster Revival El Primero A384 remains an exceptional creation and a nice piece to have.

Her thoughts and feeling

At the first look, it doesn’t seem like much. But on the wrist, it reveals its true personality. It is a tool watch, a very useful one on a daily basis. Despite that, it is a lovely appearance that handles easily the needs of casual occasions.

Zenith Chronomaster Revival El Primero A384 Technical Specifications and Price

Reference 03.A384.400/21.C815

UNIQUE SELLING POINTS

Original Revival of the 1969 Reference A384

Original 1969 case with 37 mm diameter

Automatic El Primero column-wheel chronograph

MOVEMENT

Movement: El Primero 400 Automatic

Calibre: 13¼“` (Diameter: 30 mm)

Movement thickness: 6.6 mm

Components: 278

Jewels: 31

Frequency: 36,000 VpH (5 Hz)

Power-reserve.: min. 50 hours

Finishes: Oscillating weight with “Côtes de Genève” motif

FUNCTIONS

Hours and minutes in the centre

Small seconds at 9 o’clock

Chronograph:

Central chronograph hand

12-hour counter at 6 o’clock

30-minute counter at 3 o’clock

Tachymetric scale

Date indication at 4:30

CASE, DIAL & HANDS

Diameter: 37 mm

Diameter opening: 32.3 mm

Thickness: 12.60 mm

Crystal: Domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment on both sides

Case-back: Transparent sapphire crystal

Material: Stainless steel

Water-resistance: 10 ATM

Dial: White-lacquered dial with black-coloured counters

Hour-markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with Super-LumiNova®SLN C3

Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with Super-LumiNova®SLN C3

STRAPS & BUCKLES

Strap: Comes in a black alligator strap or ladder bracelet

Buckle: Stainless steel pin buckle

PRICE

7.900,00 CHF / 7.800,00 €

Zenith Chronomaster Revival El Primero A384 Gallery

In front of “Mustard Race Riot” by Andy Warhol, 1963)

Zenith Chronomaster Revival El Primero A384 on the wrist and Andy’s Warhol Flower paint (series started in 1964)

Review Zenith Chronomaster Revival El Primero A384 Zenith launched last year the El Primero A384. It is not a vintage-inspired piece but the accurate reproduction of the 1969 launched piece.

#A384 #Chronomaster #El Primero #Review #Revival #Zenith #Zenith Chronomaster Revival El Primero A384

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its-lifestyle · 6 years ago

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At this year’s Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH) in Geneva, Cartier’s 2019 novelties ranged from dazzling jewellery timepieces, reinventions of the Tonneau variations and Panthere figurative bracelet watches.

Out of the latest references, a large portion of the new collections were geared towards women. One of the biggest showstoppers was an update of Cartier’s cult classic timepiece, the Baignoire.

This unique watch was created by French watchmaker Louis Cartier in 1912. To give it a refreshing twist, he stretched out the traditional round watch to form an oblong-shape.

The design is of two straight parallel lines closed by two curves which formed the shape of a bathtub (“baignoire” in French) – hence its name.

The Baignoire showcases the power of watchmaking design hidden in ordinary form and demonstrates Cartier’s prowess in the art of watchmaking.

With its aesthetic style, the watch has carved a name as a signature piece for discerning women with an eye for timeless and chic designs.

In the 1960s, the Baignoire won over the hearts of French screen goddesses and trendsetters like Catherine Deneuve and Romy Schneider.

Did you know the limited-edition watch was featured in the an episode of TV teen series, Gossip Girl? Though a classic, the watch continues to garner a following with the current generation.

The latest Baignoire collection has been reworked by Cartier’s design studio and maintains its elegant look. Its exacting finishes strike a balance between pure design and sophisticated lines, in honour of the model born in 1958.

While the design remains unchanged, the piece itself has evolved to offer a narrower bracelet and re-designed Roman numerals on a matte silver background.

The caseback is seamlessly integrated into the case with water-resistance up to 30m and in line with modern quality standards. For an elongated version, there is the Baignoire Allongee Black and Baignoire Allongee Celadon.

These stylish timepieces are studded with precious stones such as emeralds, Paraiba tourmalines, yellow sapphires or diamonds. To pay homage to its classic heritage, the dial is paved with diamonds.

Cartier Tank Chinoise.

Tank Chinoise, one of Cartier’s signature watches from the 1920s, has also been given an update. To further capture the chinoiserie style, Cartier pairs the black dial with the colour red, which symbolises passion and vitality among the Chinese.

The square is lengthened to become a rectangle bordered by two lintels of calibrated rubies highlighted by black enamel. A line of diamonds adorns the ‘brancards’ (vertical sidebars) and edge.

The Panthère de Cartier Manchette and mini jewellery watches are also showstoppers in their own right. In the Manchette watch, Cartier gives emphasis to the flowing, silky bracelet of the Panthère de Cartier watch, the timeless icon at the Maison Cartier.

A partly open-worked chain reveals a glimpse of the skin and lightens the material to create a casual yet stylish piece. The mini watch may be a tad tiny but takes its form to greater heights of elegance.

Not to be missed is the revamp of the classic Panthère Figurative jewellery timepieces. A highlight is the Panthère watch, featuring yellow gold and diamonds. The design has been rendered in graphic form, with geometric black lacquer spots, taut lines and gem-set curves.

The panther’s head faces a minimalist dial, incorporated into a perspective motif that encircles the wrist.

Cartier also reintroduced the Panthère Crash watch. With diamond-paved heads and oblong dial and delicate mother-of-pearl , this watch becomes an all-new expression of its symbolic animal through jewellery art.

The Tonneau watch has also been redesigned with an hours and minutes model and skeleton dual time zone.

The collection would not be complete without the historical 1904 Santos de Cartier watches, specially crafted by Louis Cartier for his friend, aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont.

Paying homage to the historical 1904 watches, the new collection boasts elegance and simplicity. Understated, pared-down and fitted with an alligator leather strap, the new watches remain true to the elegance of the original model.

Cased in gold, gold and steel, or just steel, it features Roman numerals, visible screws, a beaded winding crown and blue cabochon which further perpetuates the heritage of this watchmaking classic.

Its unchanged square shape – reminiscent of the geometric designs popular in Paris at the time – promotes pure and symmetrical design to mirror the four sharp corners of the Eiffel Tower.

Another highlight is the Santos de Cartier chronograph watch. It has a single start/stop push button visible at 9 o’clock, with the reset function directly integrated into the crown.

Finally, there is the Santos de Cartier Skeleton Noctambule, with bridges coated with Super-LumiNova pigments that is invisible during daytime but reproduce and radiate stored light at night.

from Style – Star2.com http://bit.ly/2w7ZIO1

#Blogger

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wristwatchjournal · 4 years ago

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Introducing – Girard-Perregaux 1966 and Vintage 1945 Black Onyx “Infinity Editions”

Girard-Perregaux introduces two new members to its classic gent’s dress watch collections – the 1966 and the Vintage 1945 – with elegant black onyx dials. Presented during Geneva Watch Days, the 1966 Infinity and the Vintage 1945 Infinity models are limited editions and don a sophisticated black-tie look.

Girard-Perregaux 1966 Infinity

Girard-Perregaux presented its first high-frequency (36,000 vibrations per hour) movement in 1966. To celebrate GP’s pioneering period in the field of chronometry and to recapture the spirit of the high-frequency model (Chronometer HF Gyromatic), GP presented its 1966 collection in 2016. The 1966 collection is renowned for its round, slim cases, elegant leaf-shaped hands and tapered hour markers. Just ahead of Geneva Watch Days, GP launched a 1966 Orion Trilogy of 40mm dress watches with black and blue aventurine dials.

The latest addition to the classic 1966 watch family is the Infinity with its black onyx dial, a limited edition of 188 pieces. GP’s take on the gent’s dress watch, the 1966 Infinity comes in a 40mm polished stainless steel case with a thin height of 8.90mm. A straightforward three-hand-and-date model, the novelty of the Infinity is its black onyx dial. According to the brand, working with onyx is challenging and requires no fewer than 15 operations to achieve the desired thinness and shape.

The inky-black dial features applied hour markers in rose gold at 12, 3, 6 and 9 o’clock while the remaining indices are picked out in a similar pink gold colour. Slim and elongated, the markers add sophistication to the dial that also displays the new ‘bridge logo’ under the brand name at 12 o’clock, a nod to the famous La Esmeralda Tourbillon with Three Bridges model that won a gold medal at the Paris Universal Exhibition in 1889. The leaf-shaped hour and minute hands are rhodium plated to match the steel case, although the central seconds hand is golden to match the indices and the GP monogram. As far as date windows go, this one is discreet with a black background to match the dial.

The movement powering the 1966 Inifinity is the trustworthy in-house automatic calibre GP03300-1402, which is revealed beneath the sapphire crystal on the caseback. With a frequency of 28,800vph/4Hz, the 218-part movement offers a minimum 46-hour power reserve. The plates and bridges are bevelled, engraved, circular-grained and decorated with Côtes de Genève. The large oscillating weight in 18k pink gold is also finished with Côtes de Genève.

The 1966 Infinity is accompanied by a handsome black alligator strap with a triple-folding steel buckle. A nice detail is the stitching on the alligator strap; the first two stitches are picked out in a golden colour while the rest are black to echo the colour scheme of the dial.

Quick facts: 40mm x 8.90mm – stainless steel, polished – 30m water-resistance – black onyx dial – pink gold indices – calibre GP03300-1402, automatic with pink gold oscillating weight – 4Hz/28,800vph – 46h power reserve for hours, minutes, central seconds and date – black alligator strap with triple folding steel buckle – limited to 188 pieces – CHF 9,100 – available from September 2020

Girard-Perregaux Vintage 1945 Infinity

The Vintage 1945 collection, as its name suggests, is populated with retro-styled pieces with a strong Art Deco influence. First presented in 2004 and revamped again in 2012, the Vintage 1945 collection was inspired by a GP model of that very year and features distinctive rectangular cases, prominent gadroons and conical tapered lugs. Currently represented by just a Large Date and Moon Phase model (the chronograph seems to have been discontinued), the Vintage 1945 welcomes a new closed dial version of the Large Date and Moon Phase model.

Again, the novelty here is the incorporation of an inky-black onyx dial. The rectangular stainless steel case is polished and measures 36.10mm x 35.25mm and has a more pronounced height of 11.74mm. Viewed from the side, the case reveals its curved ergonomic profile and interesting architectural features like the gadroons framing either end of the dial and the tapered conical lugs. Both the case and the sapphire crystal over the dial are curved from top to bottom and from left to right to ensure the case sits flush against the wrist.

The black onyx dial features applied rose gold indices, the GP monogram at noon and thick faceted dauphine-style hands to match the steel case. The moon phase indicator at 6 o’clock also incorporates the running seconds with a small golden hand and the big date window appears in the upper half of the dial, just below the GP monogram. The patented ‘grande date’ or big date display is composed of two separate discs, just 0.1mm apart. What hasn’t been incorporated here is the ‘bridge’ logo that appears on new models in the 1966 collection and the brand name appears again under the date window in white.

Powered with an in-house manufacture automatic movement, the calibre GP03300-1405 can be seen below the sapphire crystal caseback. The patented ‘grande date’ mechanism, that changes instantly in just 1/10,000th of a second, relies on two extremely thin discs with no visible separation between the numerals. The oscillating weight is made from pink gold and the movement can store up to 46 hours of power reserve for the hours, minutes, small seconds, big date and moon phases.

Like the 1966 Infinity, the black alligator strap has golden and black stitching to echo the case and comes with a folding steel buckle.

Quick facts: 36.10mm x 35.25mm x 11.74mm (height) – stainless steel, polished – 30m water-resistance – black onyx dial – pink gold indices – calibre GP03300-1405, automatic with pink gold oscillating weight – 4Hz/28,800vph – 46h power reserve for hours, minutes, small seconds, big date and moon phases – black alligator strap with folding steel buckle – limited to 88 pieces – CHF 15,690 – available from September 2020

The post Introducing – Girard-Perregaux 1966 and Vintage 1945 Black Onyx “Infinity Editions” appeared first on Wristwatch Journal.

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#watches #luxury watches #wrist watches

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torixus · 5 years ago

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What Igbos Need to Know About Isiagu Symbol

Abstract

Akwa isiagụ is the clothing fabric patterned with motifs showing fierce-looking lion’s head and mane. Some designs show a less stern lion’s head, with two or three cow horns besides it.

Incorrect Language

But let’s clear this.

The leopard is Igbo animal totem

The lion symbol is not originally Igbo

These men did not talk about the lion.

Stay true to who you are

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#quotes life relationships feelings love quotes relatable quotes heartbreak heartbroken spil

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jlalondes · 6 years ago

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What are your muse’s aesthetics? BOLD any which apply to your muse! Remember to REPOST! Feel free to add to the list!

[ COLOURS ] ~ burgundy. red. crimson. scarlet. maroon. mahogany. copper. amber.chocolate. brown. tawny. tan. bronze. brass. orange. gold. saffron. yellow. chartreuse. spring green. lime. mint. green. olive. forest. turquoise. teal. cerulean. blue. navy. cobalt. periwinkle. indigo. pewter. plum. purple. magenta. fuchsia. lilac. lavender. pink. coral. peach. ivory. cream. white. silver. grey. smoke. charcoal. ebony. black. pastels. vibrant. matte. metallic.muted. dark. light.

[ BODY ] ~ mutations. claws. fangs. wings. tails. feathers. webs. spikes. scales. fur. stripes. spots. freckles. acne. bruises. scars. scratches. gashes. lashes. wounds. amputations. burns. brands. teeth. gums. tongues. lips. beards. mustaches. cheeks. noses. ears. eyes.eyelashes. eyebrows. hair. heads. neck. shoulders. collarbones. arms. elbows. wrists. hands. fingers. breast. back. ribs. abs. belly. hips. curves. butts. legs. thighs. knees. shins. ankles. feet. toes. nails. sweat. spit. tears. blood. heart. stomach. lungs. liver. veins. guts. bones. spine. muscle. skin. feline. canine. masculine. feminine.

[ MATERIALS ] ~ metal. gold. silver. platinum. pewter. titanium. iron. steel. copper. bronze. brass. tin. bismuth. diamonds. pearls. rubies. garnets. sapphires. emeralds. jade. peridots. alexandrite. opal. topaz. jasper. quartz. rose quartz. smoky quartz. amethyst. citrine. fluorite. amber. malachite. turquoise. lapis lazuli. sodalite. pyrite. labradorite. moonstone. petrified wood. wood. paper. parchment. hemp. canvas. burlap. oils. skin. muslin. rayon. faux. wool.fur. lace. leather. skins. suede. corduroy. silk. satin. chiffon. velvet. denim. linen. cotton. charcoal. clay. stone. rocks. flint. asphalt. brick. granite. marble. dust. rust. glitter. sand. dirt. mud. smoke. ash. carbonate. rubber. synthetics. nylon. polyester. plastic. glass. porcelain. bone. shells. coral.

[ NATURE ] ~ grass. leaves. trees. bark. flowers. roses. daisies. forget me nots. tulips. lavender. petals. thorns. seeds. hay. roots. ocean. pond. river. stream. waterfall. creek.meadow. forest. desert. tundra. savanna. rain forest. tropical. jungle. marsh. moors. swamp. plains. hills. highlands. caves. underwater. coral reef. beach. waves. space. clouds. mountains. fire. lava. ice. frost. water. air. earth. rain. snow. wind. moon. stars. sun. heat. cold. steam. lightning. sunlight. moonlight. dawn. dusk. twilight. midnight. sunrise. sunset. dewdrops. shadow. tornado. hurricane. water spout. thunder. hail. twisters. humidity. dryness.

[ FOODS/DRINKS ] ~ pepper. salt. sugar. honey. syrup. caramel. candy. bubblegum. mints. candy canes. gumdrops. lollipops. chocolate. vanilla. cinnamon. ice cream. cake. cookies. brownies. biscuits. pie. tarts. lemonade. soda. champagne. wine. brandy. rum. whiskey. vodka. tequila. sake. beer. soju. gin. crema de cacao. cocoa. latte. coffee. tea. spices. herbs. fruit. apples. oranges. lemons. cherries. strawberries. blueberries. raspberries. cranberries. watermelons. cantaloupes. bananas. coconuts. grapes. kiwi. pomegranates. tomatoes. vegetables. potatoes. cucumbers. carrots. turnips. onions. leeks. celery. broccoli. cabbages. lettuces. roots. nuts. white meat. red meat. raw meat. veal. pork. chicken. beef. venison. fish.lobster. oysters. pizza. ambrosia. pasta. sandwiches. soup.

[ HOBBIES ] ~ music. piano. flute. woodwinds. whistles. drums. guitar. cello. synthesizer. violin. lute. harp. fiddle. harmonica. trumpet. brass. singing. composing. folk. classical. bluegrass. blues. jazz. big band. pop. country. rock. punk. metal. electronica. hip hop. reggae. ska. rap. vinyl records. cassettes. cds. soundcloud. itunes. spotify. art. sculpting. pottery. painting. watercolour. drawing. pastels. charcoal. sketching. graffiti. printing. inking. collecting.fighting. martial arts. self-defence. boxing. fencing. sumo. wrestling. jousting. paintball. lazer tag. duelling. hunting. fishing. climbing. weight lifting. training. sports. football. football (usa). rugby. baseball. cricket. lacrosse. volleyball. basketball. tennis. badminton. skating. cycling. sailing. rowing. hiking. running. gymnastics. dancing. ice skating. hockey. reading. writing.cooking. sewing. acting. photography. video games. horseback riding. gardening. smithing. shopping. traveling. movies. theatre. libraries. books. magazines. playing cards. poker chips. chess. dice. science.

[ STYLE ] ~ nudism. perfume. cologne. piercings. tattoos. henna. body paint. war paint. make up. lipstick. mascara. eyeliner. eye shadow. powder. beauty marks. blush. nail polish. lingerie. fishnet. pantie-hose. socks. stockings. leggings. long johns. under armor. corsets. sports bras. bustles. camisoles. blouses. button ups. tunics. vests. waistcoats. leather jackets. ponchos. sweaters/jumpers. hoodies. skirts. jeans. kilts. breeches. scarfs. cravats. ascots. belts. sashes. gloves. heels. sandals. platforms. tennis shoes. penny loafers. jordans. slippers. boots. cowboy boots. rain boots. army boots. armor. justaucorps.trench coats. capes. cloaks. burqa. suits. tuxedos. kimonos. saris. sundresses. gowns.jewelry. earrings. noes rings. lip rings. tongue piercings. belly rings. gauges. eyebrow rings.necklaces. pearl strings. leis. bracelets. bangles. cuffs. watches. friendship bracelets. rings. pendants. lockets. broaches. boutonnieres. pocket watches. cufflinks. hats. crowns. circlets. flower crowns. helmets. hijabs. turbans. baseball caps. cowboy hats. brocade. doublet. gorget. bracers. masks. cowls. braces. glasses. sun glasses. eye contacts. pyjamas.

#headcanons

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fashiontrendin-blog · 6 years ago

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Here’s Why You Deserve A Pair Of Luxury Sneakers

http://fashion-trendin.com/heres-why-you-deserve-a-pair-of-luxury-sneakers/

Here’s Why You Deserve A Pair Of Luxury Sneakers

Luxury ready meals. Luxury water. Luxury bleach. The human race has transformed plenty of everyday products into fancy, pointless abominations. But one thing it did get right was turning the humble athletic trainer into a piece of art worthy of a streetwear king (AKA someone with a six figure Insta following).

The high street may be failing, but high-end brands are continuing to flourish – especially those that make luxury sneakers. Brand sales by the likes of Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Balenciaga are continuing to soar, proving that today’s generation of stunting, brand-conscious consumers is investing in premium, well-made fashion rather than wear-once-and-throw-away pieces. And the luxury sneaker is at the heart of it all.

Every brand worth its salt has created one – from traditional Northampton shoemakers to century-old Parisian fashion houses, and it’s been a key contributor to the casual direction menswear is firmly committed to. In short, you need a pair. But if you don’t know your Jordans from your John Lobbs, you might want to get your feet stuck into our guide to the slickest luxury sneaker brands you can invest in right now.

Credit cards/second mortgage at the ready.

Gucci

The world’s biggest trendsetters kicked off the embroidery revolution about four years ago, and it hasn’t slowed down since. Made in Italy, its most popular low-top white Ace sneakers feature either the brand’s iconic bee emblem – introduced in the 1970s – or a snake in the red, green and gold Gucci colourway.

These much-imitated shoes are the eternally on-trend sneakers that go with virtually everything in your wardrobe, from raw selvedge denim jeans and a plain white tee, to dressing down your summer suits.

CQP

Nice shoes from Stockholm. Surprise surprise. CQP’s (Conversations & Quintessential Products) premium kicks are designed in Sweden, and handmade in Portugal, and certainly fit the bill. You’ll most likely spot its Racquet collection, low tops commonly featuring a canvas side panel, 100% Italian suede toe and tongue, and waxed cotton laces.

Alternatively, there’s the Tarmac line, a smarter quarter-top style made with the same quality suede but with a 100% calf leather lining and arch support with several layers of cushioning. The next best thing to wearing pillows on your feet.

Axel Arigato

Some brands stick to one shape and that’s that. Not Axel Arigato. To this Swedish brand, variety is everything.

From the uber casual basketball-inspired Court hi-top, the signature Clean coming in zip-up and laceless options, to the futuristically functional Tech Runner, Axel’s lavish leather-infused lineup is a one-stop shop for all sneaker lovers, bringing art students and sports nuts together in perfect harmony. They did it. World peace at last.

Balenciaga

A brand immersed in history, with trainers from the future. It’s an unusual combination, and for a company nearly a century old Balenciaga is continuing to shock the world with its innovative designs.

The oversized Triple S sneakers are the most iconic of the Spanish fashion house’s footwear styles, manufactured with superior nubuck and mesh, proudly boasting the brand logo towards the back, with that divisive triple-stacked sole jutting out. They are kings of the chunky trainer trend.

This isn’t the only avant-garde style the brand has though, as they’ve also jumped on the sock-meets-shoe hype with the Speed trainer. This alternative silhouette showcases more practical properties, with a memory sole and comfortable shock-absorbing technology.

Common Projects

One of the most instantly recognisable silhouettes on the market today, mainly because they’re so clean you could eat your dinner off them. But there’s another reason why Common Projects are so noticeable: the gold foil style code stamped on the heel, each unique one signifying the colour, code and size of the shoe.

It’s this little detail that makes the American-Italian label such a cult purchase; the fact that they’re expertly crafted in Italy, come in on-trend pastel colour ways like blush pink and nude, and are worn by the likes of Drake and Alexander Skarsgard is just a plus.

Grenson

Another footwear industry shocker: Grenson doesn’t just make brogue boots for bearded selvedge denim enthusiasts; it also makes killer sneakers in its own distinct style. You might not have even known it made its own sneakers, which is an easy mistake to make as it hasn’t been in the casual footwear game for long. This doesn’t mean the British brand is inexperienced, however.

Producing three styles, each is simply named ‘Sneaker’ followed by a number, Grenson’s takes on the casual footwear staple look extremely polished and smooth. Sneaker 1, for example, is an homage to the ‘70s tennis shoe with its simple silhouette, but it’s made premium by hand-painted calf leather, giving it an opulent feel. Sneaker 3 on the other hand fits more in-line with the brand’s traditional aesthetic, giving a low-top trainer shape brogue detailing in regal colourways.

Saint Laurent

Think Saint Laurent and you automatically envision tight leather jackets and black boots. But that’s not always the case with the French fashion house, as rock stars also have to worry about foot cramp. For those laid back days, Saint Laurent produces equally edgy and decadent trainers, with scrawled branding across its court classic low-top trainers which are crafted in canvas and available in a variety of shades.

Looking for more of a statement? Then try out its hi-tops adorned with block panelling, born to be paired with your favourite leather jacket and black jeans.

John Lobb

Did you ever want to leave your regular shoes behind at the bowling alley when you were a child so you could take home those vintage looking rentals? Well now you can get a pair – albeit of previously unattainable quality – without hundreds of people having worn them first. John Lobb makes seriously exquisite and spotless retro sneakers in Italy, featuring a stitched cup sole construction for durability and lightness – two qualities perfect for both the bowling alley and the sidewalk.

Alternatively, if you’re feeling (extra) flush, you can use Lobb’s By Request service and create your own bespoke trainers.

Church’s

A proper heritage footwear brand, Church’s was established in 1873, yet in the 1990s the company was taken over by Prada, injecting it a fresher and more contemporary direction. Many of its sophisticated designs (the Willenhall loafer, the Walthum brogue) remained for its loyal sartorial customer base, but the brand also attracted a younger, casual consumer who wanted well-made trainers steeped in masterful craftsmanship.

You’ll find the renowned Church’s logo on the tongue of its luxury sneakers like the Mirfield, with its silhouette resembling a Derby shoe. It also features a refined Nevada leather like the company’s formal styles, showing that Church’s has shifted with the times while maintaining its roots.

Brunello Cucinelli

Italian man-behind-the-brand, Mr Brunello Cucinelli describes himself as “part businessman, part philosopher and park monk”. Although best known for its cashmere and exemplary tailoring, the brand’s retro trainers are pristine to say the least (but please don’t run in them; nurse them as if they were your own child).

Hand-milled, made in Italy, 100% leather, and with each style featuring intricate detailing, these shoes have it all. You’ll feel even better about purchasing such extravagant footwear too, as Brunello donates 20% of his profits to charity.

AMI

Founder of AMI Alexandre Matiussi has worked at Marc Jacobs, Dior and Givenchy, before starting his own streetwear-worshipped brand in Paris in 2011. Just that small sentence there would be enough for most to gain trust in AMI’s sneakers without actually seeing them. And your trust would’ve paid off, because these kicks are special indeed.

AMI’s most identifiable trainers are the Lucky 9s, a neoprene inner sock runner with a leather insole, sporting major Back To The Future vibes with its ‘80s colourways and ridged shape. But if you’re looking for something quieter to go with your everyday staples, the equally throwback three-strap sneakers with embroidered AMI at the heel will do.

Berluti

Berluti’s ethos is that ‘you cannot be elegant if you are not comfortable and well-shod.’ This message is clearly evident by looking at the Parisian brand’s shoes.

The hi-top Fast Track is like a runner/hiking boot hybrid, but instead of being chased out like a Frankenstein monstrosity it has been heralded as a modern masterpiece. The mashup consists of a glazed calf leather upper and Vanezia leather detailing, but it’s the technical qualities like memory-foam insoles and anti-slip notched soles that gives the shoe substance as well as style.

But if it’s more substance you’re after, you’ve come to the right place. Lizard and alligator leather are just some of the exotic materials produced by the brand, with extra detailing coming from fine line engraving.

Jigsaw

Expensive sneakers don’t just have to be for self-entitled teenagers using daddy’s credit card; they can also be for the sophisticated gentleman who has a drinks trolley full of rare bourbons in his study. Jigsaw, founded in Brighton in 1970, doesn’t lend itself to trends or fads. Instead it makes luxury sneakers you could’ve worn last season, this season, and next season. Simple and timeless, the brand’s signature low-tops are made of 100% leather in Portugal, boast gunmetal eyelets as well as durable rubber soles.

If you’re of the smart casual persuasion (T-shirt and trainers with a coloured suit), these luxe but inexpensive kicks are for you. High street prices with an upmarket design – what more could you want?

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meenah-is-a-punk-rocker · 7 years ago

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Like Rendition Of ABC Track Goes Viral

This file accommodates extra info, most likely added from the digital digicam or scanner used to create or digitize it. If the file has been modified from its original state, some details could not totally mirror the modified file. ReadyRosie is an early schooling software that's at present serving to faculties and communities across the nation deepen https://kidsongs.com/ and scale their father or mother engagement efforts by leveraging the ability of video modeling and cellular technology to satisfy and equip parents the place they are. To obtain the free app LearnEnglish Kids: Playtime - songs and stories by British Council, get iTunes now. kids songs, baby songs, abc, abc song, learn abc, learn english alpbhabet, kids songs, baby songs, nursery rhymes, children songs, kids videoYou can educate the letters using the flashcards or movies, after which sing the track within the classroom. Lastly, some nursery rhymes are songs which were handed down by the generations, with lyrics that have shut ties to Chinese historical past and pop culture. And I am beginning with out music with the ASL spelling.. to separate them from the ABC in spanish! The ABC alphabet music is an animated colourful 3d practice, with the alphabet track sung by children exhibiting highlighted letters from A to Z for easy following and learning. Interest and enjoyment of books is very variable, relying on availability of books and whether adults spend time sharing these with kids in constructive ways. However they have been nonetheless forced to apologize for singing the 1957 music which is among the best-recognized and most profitable Australian songs. Contemplating that https://www.kididdles.com/lyrics/allsongs.html a few of as we speak's traditional nursery rhymes are greater than two centuries old, there are often a number of theories surrounding their origins—and never plenty of sound proof about which argument is right. This conventional track has been a part of studying the alphabet for almost two centuries. Although the abc conjecture seems fully out of reach, there are some results towards the reality of this conjecture. James Orchard Halliwell launched the tune to kids in 1842 with Nursery Rhymes of England, and made it extra child-friendly. Not your common animal songs and, undoubtedly, not only for children....26 songs whose styles range from Klezmer to Jazz to classical and supply an educational but thoroughly entertaining take a look at every thing from Alligator and Porcupine to Vicuna and Uakari. The Bruce Zweig site () does in fact have the entire Silent Fountain album as free mp3 obtain, and I very extremely recommend it. It's geared to youngsters as young as 2 or 3 for the violin, but parents should be present for the lessons and concerned in each the instruction and the learning process. The Huge Crimson Hat Youngsters YouTube channel has three major exhibits - the Touring Trio travels all over the world, Oliart shares fun art initiatives along with your youngsters, and the Discovery Twins find out about science!

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revolutionwatchmagazine-blog · 8 years ago

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Battle Of Pateks: Patek Philippe Nautilus vs. Patek Philippe Aquanaut

Sports watches have this inimitable charm: they are casual enough to be worn for everyday wear and of course, sporty enough for when you need to indulge in your athletic pursuits. If you happen to stumble upon a sports watch that adds elegance to the equation, then you have in your hands a winner. This perfect blend of stylish and sporty defines two of today’s most sought-after timepieces – Patek Philippe’s Nautilus and Aquanaut watches. Both are products of the brand’s unmatched skill in the art of finely crafted timepieces, which combines both visual appeal and technical mastery.

While they both belong in the same category, each has its own unique attributes, of course. If you can’t decide which Patek Philippe watch suits your wrist best, let Revolution Watches help you as it zeroes in on the characteristics of each timepiece and how they are tailored to cater to distinct styles, personalities, and lifestyles.

Patek Philippe Nautilus: The Luxury Sports Watch That Started It All

The launch of the Nautilus in 1976 signalled Patek Philippe’s foray into the world of sports watches. When the watch was released, it was clearly more than just a sports watch but a luxury timepiece as well, paving the way for such category to be introduced to the market.

The design genius of Gérald Genta made it possible for the Nautilus to achieve such a distinct style. In designing the case, Genta was inspired by the seal of a porthole that was commonly found on ocean liners. To emphasise the sportiness of the watch, it was made from stainless steel with matte and gloss finishes to highlight its rugged allure.

When the Nautilus was launched, it became one of the first stainless steel luxury sports watches in the market. It quickly became iconic as well and elevated the status of Patek Philippe further as an innovative brand. The Nautilus spawned many variations over the years while retaining the aesthetic codes that made it a living legend.

Why you should invest in the Nautilus: If you’re all about vintage-inspired timepieces, then the Nautilus is for you. Classic and elegant are descriptions that best suit this watch, undoubtedly bringing to the table a timeless allure that’s rarely found in a sports watch. The best quality of this timepiece, however, is its ability to reinvent itself, sort of a blank canvas that can be repainted to showcase a myriad of iterations that make it modern and relevant for the contemporary audience.

Reference 5980R-001 Nautilus is a great example of how the line has evolved to become more modern. It perfectly suits you if you’re the kind of watch lover with a penchant for trends. The rose gold case is an eye-catching detail, so is the alligator strap in matte dark brown that matches the rich colour. The black-brown dial complements the whole look of the watch and truly embodies the unique craftsmanship of the Swiss brand.

Patek Philippe Aquanaut: The Casual Sports Watch

At the opposite end of the spectrum is a sports watch that takes pride in being a laidback version of its predecessor. Patek Philippe introduced the Aquanaut in 1997 with the aim to give sports watch enthusiasts a timepiece that’s elegant yet very casual.

While it markets itself as a dress sports watch, the Aquanaut is a juggernaut when it comes to the aesthetic and technical details. It is highlighted with an octagonal shape, complemented with a “Tropical” composite strap that ensures comfort for the wearer. Inside, a powerful self-winding movement, calibre 324 SC, gives the watch topnotch performance.

Just like the Nautilus, the Aquanaut has spawned a variety of iterations to cater to those who want a dress sports watch that boasts stylish design.

Why you should invest in the Aquanaut: If you’re more into minimalist style, the Aquanaut is a great match for you. It’s a sports watch that doesn’t scream attention yet remains attractive in its simplicity. The innovative design blends well with the performance it provides, giving you a reliable sports watch you can wear anytime and anywhere.

If you want the look of a steel sports watch but doesn’t show too much heaviness, the 5167/1A-001 Aquanaut is an ideal choice. The stainless steel case blends well with the embossed black dial, exuding luxury while remaining laidback in appearance.

The Perfect Patek Philippe Sports Watch

Choose the Nautilus when you’re more inclined to the classic elegance it showcases. Whether at work or at play, you’re sure to command attention with an iconic sports watch that comes not only with a rich history but with a distinct look as well.

Get the Aquanaut if you prefer casual sophistication no matter the occasion. It’s an everyday watch that looks classy yet laidback; the perfect go-to watch that doesn’t overwhelm your wrist.

Get to know the Patek Philippe Aquanaut and the Patek Philippe Nautilus as well as their prices and other must-have pieces from the brand’s rich portfolio such as the Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar and Patek Philippe Tourbillon watches when you visit the brand’s website. Check out Revolution Watches online for more stories and videos on Patek Philippe watches.

Must also read: How Women Can Up Their Style With New Patek Philippe Watches

#patekphilippe #patekphilippewatch #luxurywatch #watches

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