#handyman leonardo

[threestripeslider]

okay everyone and their mother knows that OMO!Leonardo and MNMC!Leon are the Peepaw Multiverses most annoying Bestie-Worstie Duo; now i propose WMAS!Leo and OMO!Leonardo are the DIY Duo but with a very, very skewed power scale as in OMO!Leonardo knows how to fix a leaking faucet and faulty toilet, meanwhile WMAS!Leo just builds a whole fucking shed for pure fun but wrecks the washing machine by accidentally leaving a wrench in the drum when he turns it on to test it.

[gaymaramada]

Rise! Boys with a S/O that vocally stims by singing:

Leonardo

He thinks it's adorable.

Likes to sit with you while you work/study because you always hum along to whatever music you're listening to.

Constantly tries to get different songs he likes stuck in your head so he can hear you sing them.

If you're humming a song he knows he'll start singing along with you.

It turns into a whole karaoke session.

“Oh my god, is that Britney?!”

Sometimes he’ll catch you singing the same lyric over and over again and he’ll tap your head:

“Should I call a handyman? I think my record player’s broken.”

Donatello

He has a similar vocal stim!! He often finds himself whistling when he’s focused on something.

He likes to have you with him in his lab — he enjoys the steady background noise and finds your voice soothing.

If the two of you are hanging out, you may end up trying to harmonize with one another.

(It’s unsuccessful, but it’s the thought that counts)

If you're humming for long periods of time, he'll have you take a break so as to not strain your voice:

"Y/N, you've been humming for the past half hour. How is your throat? Let me finish attaching this part and we can find something to do."

He helps to distract you with something so you can rest your voice, whether it be by the two of you grabbing some food or watching a movie.

Raphael

He loves the sound of your voice! He’s super impressed by how good you sound.

It took him a while to realize it was a stim, but when you kept looping the same song over and over one day, it began to click.

He’ll ask what song you're singing all the time.

He ends up staring at you with the most lovey-dovey smile on his face.

Sing him to sleep. Please.

He’s not above teasing you when you sing the same tune for a long time:

“Sweetheart, I love you, but Raph’s not sure he can handle another week of Mr. Bluesky.”

Michelangelo

He sings with you!!

He hums a lot while drawing/painting/etc. so he completely gets it.

Sometimes when you get really into the song, he’ll start to hype you up:

“Ooh! Sing it, baby!”

God forbid you get a sad or angsty song stuck in your head, though.

He will confront you.

“Good Afternoon! Welcome to Dr. Feelings’ seminar: The Mitski Effect. I’ve noticed you’ve been humming First Love / Late Spring a lot lately—”

Apart from that, he’s perfect company for when your voice just needs to come out.

[thepastisalreadywritten]

On 4 January 1914, a momentous event unfolded in Paris as officials and art enthusiasts eagerly gathered to witness the long-awaited return of the renowned painting known as the 'Mona Lisa,' or 'La Gioconda,' or 'La Joconde.'

This masterpiece, a product of Leonardo da Vinci's (15 April 1452 – 2 May 1519) brilliance during the Italian Renaissance, had been unlawfully taken from the Louvre Museum in 1911 by an Italian handyman named Vincenzo Peruggia (8 October 1881 – 8 October 1925).

Following an exhaustive two-year search, the painting was ultimately recovered from Peruggia's possession in Florence, Italy.

The homecoming of this painting to Paris held immense significance, considering that its theft had triggered widespread panic and raised serious concerns regarding the security of the Louvre's priceless art collection.

The extensive media coverage surrounding the theft is undoubtedly a contributing factor to the enduring fascination the public holds for this remarkable painting even today.

[cleaningservicesusa]

Exploring the Artistic and Carpentry Excellence of Florence

Florence, often considered the cradle of the Renaissance, is a city where art, culture, and craftsmanship intertwine. It is not only famous for its historical art masterpieces but also for its local artisans who continue to shape the city’s aesthetic. Whether you're visiting for its world-renowned paintings or looking to enhance your living space with expert carpentry, Florence offers a wealth of talent. This article takes a closer look at the rich tradition of painting in Florence, alongside practical tips for finding carpenters and cabinetmakers near you to elevate your home.

Discovering Florence’s Legacy of Painting

Florence Painting: A World of Art and History

When it comes to painting in Florence, the city’s history is inextricably linked to the development of Western art. From the groundbreaking works of the early Renaissance to the later Baroque masterpieces, Florence was home to some of the greatest painters of all time.

Renaissance Masterpieces: Florence is home to a wealth of iconic paintings by legendary artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Sandro Botticelli, and Raphael. The Uffizi Gallery, one of the most famous museums in the world, showcases these timeless works, including Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and da Vinci’s Annunciation. The city itself is a living museum, with frescoes and artworks decorating churches, palaces, and public buildings throughout the city.

Modern and Contemporary Florence Paintings: While the Renaissance period might dominate, Florence also has a vibrant contemporary art scene. Many local galleries exhibit modern and abstract works, providing an opportunity for emerging artists to showcase their unique perspectives. Whether you’re an art collector or a casual observer, there’s something for everyone, from traditional oil paintings to avant-garde exhibitions.

Painting in Florence: Learning and Creating

For those who wish to immerse themselves further in the city's artistic legacy, Florence offers a variety of art workshops and painting classes. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, there are plenty of opportunities to learn new techniques, experiment with different styles, and create your own masterpiece inspired by the beauty of Florence. Many local studios offer courses in oil painting, watercolors, and plein air painting in some of the city’s most picturesque locations.

Carpentry Services in Florence: Expert Craftsmanship for Your Home

Florence’s rich artistic tradition extends beyond painting into the world of fine craftsmanship. Whether you're renovating a room or adding custom woodwork to your home, Florence is home to some of the most skilled carpenters who specialize in woodworking, cabinetry, and bespoke furniture design.

Finding a Carpenter Near You: Professional Services in Florence

When looking for carpenters in Florence, the key is to choose someone with experience, attention to detail, and a commitment to quality. Whether you're searching for a trim carpenter near me or a carpenter handyman near me to tackle smaller repair projects, Florence has a wealth of options. Here's how to find the right professional:

Research and Reviews: Use online platforms like Google, Yelp, or local directories to research local carpenters. Look for reviews and customer feedback to ensure you're working with a trusted professional. When searching, terms like local carpenters for hire or Florence cabinets can help narrow down your options.

Specialized Carpenters: For specific needs such as custom cabinetry, seek out carpenters who specialize in cabinet-making. Whether you’re updating your kitchen, bathroom, or home office, Florence’s carpenters can create stunning, one-of-a-kind pieces that suit your space and taste.

Custom Work and Personalization: Many local carpenters are skilled in crafting bespoke furniture and woodwork, providing a level of customization that larger, mass-produced furniture stores cannot match. If you're looking to personalize your home with unique built-ins, shelving, or cabinets, hiring a local carpenter is the best way to get high-quality, tailored solutions.

Florence Cabinets: The Art of Custom Woodworking

One of the most sought-after services among homeowners in Florence is custom cabinetry. Whether you want to design a sleek, modern kitchen or craft a traditional look with intricate wood detailing, Florence cabinetmakers offer a range of styles and finishes to suit every taste.

Tailored Solutions: A skilled carpenter in Florence can design and build cabinets that match your exact specifications, making the most of your available space. From floor-to-ceiling storage solutions to intricate shelving units and custom wardrobes, a carpenter will collaborate with you to bring your vision to life.

Quality Materials: Florence’s expert carpenters use high-quality materials, ensuring your cabinets are not only beautiful but also durable. Whether you prefer classic wood finishes or modern, minimalist styles, Florence’s cabinetmakers can create long-lasting pieces that elevate the look of your home.

Maximizing Space: Custom cabinetry in Florence is ideal for those looking to make the most of their living space. From compact city apartments to expansive homes, carpenters can design cabinets that blend seamlessly into your home’s layout while providing ample storage space.

Carpentry and Painting: Bringing Art and Craft Together

Whether you're commissioning a painting for your wall or custom cabinetry for your home, Florence is a city where craftsmanship and artistry thrive in unison. Both disciplines share a focus on detail, precision, and creativity, and when combined, they can transform any space into something truly special.

Collaboration Between Painters and Carpenters

In Florence, many clients choose to work with both painters and carpenters to create a harmonious design for their homes. A beautiful painting or mural can complement the elegance of custom cabinetry or finely crafted woodwork, while expertly designed wood finishes can enhance the aesthetic impact of artwork.

Integrated Design Projects: If you’re undertaking a full home renovation, consider integrating both painting and carpentry. For example, a painter can create a mural in your living room, while a carpenter crafts custom furniture and shelving. Together, these elements can bring out the best in each other, creating a cohesive, stylish home.

Creative Expression: Both painters and carpenters in Florence are artists in their own right. Whether you’re looking for a painter to capture the soul of the city on canvas or a carpenter to craft a bespoke dining table, Florence’s talented professionals can bring your ideas to life with skill and flair.

Conclusion: Embrace the Craftsmanship of Florence

Florence is a city where both artistic expression and craftsmanship are celebrated. Whether you're admiring the timeless paintings that adorn the city’s galleries or seeking expert carpenters to help you design the perfect living space, Florence is the ideal place to find inspiration and quality service.

From painting lessons that let you explore your creative side to finding local carpenters to craft custom cabinets or furniture, Florence offers a wide range of possibilities to enrich your life. Whether you’re a visitor captivated by the city’s artistic heritage or a local homeowner seeking craftsmanship for your home, Florence remains an unparalleled destination for art, beauty, and expert craftsmanship

[aquilacalvitium]

So some bloke named Vincenzo Peruggia did the deed.

This guy was born on the 8th of October 1881 and died on the 8th of October 1925. Motherfucker died on his birthday. That alone is nuts.

So he commits the deed at the age of 29 in 1911. First he's hired as a Handyman at the Louvre, giving him free access to all the paintings and raising zero suspicions by walking around after-hours.

The Louvre security just straight-up sucks in 1911, so gets his friends - brothers Vincenzo and Michele Lancelotti - to hide with him in a security cupboard until closing. They snuck out, grabbed the painting, wrapped it in a blanket, and proceeded to wait the rest of the night to sneak back out of the building with it when the gallery opened the next morning.

No one even noticed it was missing until someone who came specifically for the Mona Lisa turned up.

Vincenzo was going to sell it to some rich collector until the news blew up about the theft and he probably thought "damn, might have fucked up" and kept it hidden in a false-bottom chest for the next two years.

Then he finally tried to sell it in Italy to some collector under the false name of - get this - Leonardo Vincenzo.

What a pretentious motherfucker.

Adding onto his one-braincelled-man persona, he somehow did not consider that the thing that blew up in the news two years ago and still had finders rewards going would still be on some people's minds.

Guess what happened next.

The buyer brought the head of a local art gallery with him, verified it's authenticity, somehow managed to secretly call the police while striking a deal with Vincenzo, and got the painting returned.

This is like a godamned Looney Tunes cartoon I swear.

So I realised that "person tries to steal the Mona Lisa" is such a common trope in media, so I decided to see if it ever actually happened

It did happen

And I couldn't make up this story or a single detail about the thief if I wanted to

It's like a cartoon what the fuck

[cinning-at-midnight]

Leonardo the Handy Man

Not at all inspired by my plumber husband

More smut because I'm just that girl.

~~~~~~~~

It was late in the day, and the sky was decorated in striking oranges as the sun lowered towards the horizon. The cobblestone streets were quieter, as several shop owners could be seen closing their businesses for the day. Leonardo enjoyed my company as he did odd jobs around the French city, and I appreciated that he always invited me. 

He stood beside me on the street corner in our usual spot, while we awaited the carriage driver to take us back to Comte's mansion. I smiled up at him, "It's impressive how you always know what to do when someone comes to you with a problem," I admitted. Leonardo lit his cigarillo, took a quick puff and responded, "I don't always." 

I laughed, because surely he was kidding. I'd seen this man rebuild clocks and repair residential plumbing. Leonardo glanced at me, "The trick of the trade is--" he took a slower drag as he considered his next words. He exhaled slowly, "Like, with a squeaky door-- you hear the noise and you try to manipulate the swinging of the hinges to pinpoint the problem." 

By this point the carriage had parked in front of us, and I wasn't any closer to understanding the inner workings of Leonardo's thought process. He stomped out the cigarillo and offered me his hand as I stepped inside. Leonardo joined me, sitting beside me, and I leaned against his broad shoulder. 

Leonardo absentmindedly played with my hair, and I hummed in reply. "See? It's like this, I'm making you feel comfortable and I know that because I can hear it in your voice and feel it in the way you nuzzle deeper against me." I felt a blush creep upon my cheeks, and bit my lip. 

The horse-drawn carriage came to a dip in the road, and we swayed dramatically in our seats. Abruptly, there was a loud clink, and the driver stopped. Leonardo grinned at me, and lifted his tool kit into his arm. "This might take a minute, cara mia." He stepped out of the carriage and I could hear the driver's confusion as he spoke to Leonardo. 

After a moment, I decided to get out of the cabin as well. When I did, the driver was calming the two horses, while Leonardo was removing his waist coat. "Ah, here, hold this, cara mia." I obliged, taking the heavy jacket into my arms. Leonardo rolled up his sleeves to the elbow, and crouched on the ground to fiddle with the metal connections holding the wheels and carriage together. 

"Can you bring my tools closer, please?" He asked me, and I lifted his neatly wrapped tools and placed them next to his torso under the cabin. "Grazie, cara mia." Patiently, I stood watch as he tested several bolts for tightness. His long legs were extended beyond the undercarriage, with one knee bent, as he turned his torso to the side. Leonardo looked like he was still isolating the issue, but I was entranced at the sight of his shirt riding up above his abdomen, exposing a peek of his taut muscles. 

Leonardo didn't seem to notice I'd been ogling him this entire time, and I heard him grunt as he manually tightened each bolt. He wiggled against several connecting plates, and checked the wheels for loose parts. Soon, I was noticing trace amounts of sweat glistening on his bared skin. 

In what felt like an instant, Leonardo crawled his way out from under the carriage and gathered his things. "A couple of the bolts connecting the rear tires were loosened from the pothole, but nothing too serious." I handed him my handkerchief and he dabbed at the sweat on his forehead, by his hairline. Leonardo took a deep breath and sighed, "Maybe tomorrow we should check out that pothole, eh, cara mia?" I giggled at him, and he motioned to help me back into the carriage. 

With a quick update to the driver, we set off towards the mansion once again. Leonardo was cooling down, but still looked dewy from the labor he'd performed. I leaned against him, but this time my arm was draped over his torso. I fidgeted with the slightly damp fabric of his white button-down shirt, and looked up at his face. Leonardo placed his hand over mine, and looked me in the eye. Shades of amber captivated me, and I felt myself lean in for a kiss. 

But then, the carriage was at a standstill and I knew without looking that we were back home. I felt a deep need in the pit of my stomach, and pulled away gradually so that we could disembark. My fingers released his shirt, and I watched him step out first, with his tools in hand, and his coat hanging from his shoulder. I stepped out, wrapping my fingers around his, and briskly walked inside. 

Leonardo followed, speechless, although I heard a soft chuckle when we walked quickly past a few mansion residents in the hallway. I swung open the door to his room and spun around to face him, pressing his body against the hard door and forcing it shut. My fingers nimbly unbuttoned his shirt and I let my hands roam his bare chest, sensually feeling each inch, as though I were a cartographer of topographical maps and his body was a valley. 

He let me lead, as it was something I rarely did, and I savored the sensation of being in control. Leonardo watched as I touched my lips gently to his firm abs, and slowly got on my knees. I felt his hand on my shoulder, as he caressed my neck and stroked my hair. I looked up at him and felt my own burning desire mirrored in his eyes. 

Using my teeth, I took hold of the button on his trousers and teased it open with guidance from my tongue. Next, I gripped his zipper between my teeth and slid it down. Leonardo squeezed my shoulder and I knew he was anticipating what came next. I dropped his pants and underwear to the floor and left them around his ankles, draping over his shoes. Leonardo's full length was exposed to me, at my eye level, and I was in awe at how hard we was already. 

Feeling empowered, I looked up at him, "It looks like you're ready for me, but I'm not sure…" I gingerly lapped the base of his cock with my tongue. "Cara mia, you cruel temptress." I giggled, fully enjoying the torment I was causing my lover. "Tell me what you want," I said. My lips hovered over the tip of his erection. "Please, you naughty girl." Leonardo begged, gripping both of my shoulders. 

I decided to oblige, since he did say please. My mouth took in his whole length, and I felt him tense against the door, causing it to rattle in the door frame. I felt my own arousal intensifying, and after I had him slick with my saliva, I stopped performing oral. Leonardo gritted his teeth and huffed from my sudden halting. 

I began undressing myself, and when he saw my naked form, Leonardo kicked off his shoes and discarded his pants. "Sit down," I told him. Leonardo, still hard as stone, acquiesced and I mounted him. Upon his entry into my womanhood, I moaned as he filled me entirely. Continuing to lead, I lifted my hips up high and lowered myself into him over and over again, stopping to draw circles above him periodically. 

Leonardo's fingers dug deep into my thighs, and I gripped his forearms with my nails. Repeatedly, I impaled myself with his dick until he could no longer take my incessant teasing. With a low growl, Leonardo hoisted me off of him, and landed me on my back on top of the mattress. "You've been a very, very bad girl, cara mia." I bit my lip and waited for him to give me my punishment. 

"Turn over." Leonardo murmured. I did as I was told, and raised my ass for him. The mattress shifted underneath me, as he positioned himself on his knees behind me. I waited an eternity, it seemed, before he whispered into my ear. "I hope you're ready for your punishment." I whimpered and nodded my head, eager for him to penetrate me. 

Leonardo chuckled slightly, clearly amused at how the tables had turned. Then, he dug into my hips and thrust into me hard.  My chest bounced forward, and I propped myself on my elbows the way he liked. Breasts flailing, and hair falling over my shoulders, I rocked into his thrusts as he sent me over the edge. I whimpered with each time he pulled back, and moaned when he filled me with his cock. My inner walls quaked and my mouth ran dry. 

"Such a dirty girl, cara mia." He grunted between heavy breaths, as his sweat pooled on my lower back. Leonardo bit the shell of my ear lightly, and whispered, "Cum for me, baby girl." I moaned, and collapsed onto my face, burning myself into a pillow as I screamed. Leonardo massaged the back of my neck, squeezing the sides to simulate choking. His hips thrusted furiously against me, slapping hard against my skin.  My walls caught him in a vice-like grip, and I arched backward as I screamed out his name. "Leo-Leondardo!" 

When we finished, he scooped me into his arms and spooned me on his bed. I felt like a quivering bowl of jell-o, and needed to steady my breath. "Mmm, cara mia, rest up. I'm not done punishing you, yet." 

[alby-rei]

Whatever It Takes (Leonardo x Reader)

a/n: Remember when Leonardo’s family was a major obstacle in his route? Me neither! So now they’re a problem. It’s about time we brought it up with Leo. Different from my usual, which is all about the ✨ UwUs ✨ but I thought I’d give it a shot hehe. Inspired by @xxsycamore’s and @chaosangel767’s Be My Valentine, Prompt Feb. 14: “No matter what anyone says, you’re perfect for me.” 

[Characters]: You, Leonardo, Comte

[Word count]: ~1200 words

[Tags]: Hurt/comfort, marriage, family, drama, anxious reader   

~*~

The tall windows of the mansion hallway illuminated your anxious figure outside Leonardo’s room. You stood face-to-face with the door that kept you away from your beloved, consciously aware of the passage of time while you remained indecisive.

Earlier today, the topic of marriage was brought up between you, Leonardo, and le Comte. Up until that point, you hadn’t felt the weight of the topic until you stepped away from the conversation. You and Leonardo were a couple for over a year now and even promised to spend your lives together, despite how different your lifespans were. ‘Naturally, The next step would be marriage then, is it not?�� you thought.

“Let’s get married,” he said.

The confidence with which he spoke touched your heart and made it swell with joy. But there was a great looming shadow behind this decision. Getting engaged to Leonardo, a pureblood vampire, meant that you would have a big red target on your back aimed by his family.

Leonardo rarely ever spoke of his family. The few times he did gave you enough hints that his didn’t align with them on a fundamental level. Hence why he was always traveling and residing in different cities every couple of decades. Leonardo loved surrounding himself with humans, and his resourcefulness made him instantly popular. But word travels fast when you’re the town’s favorite handyman. Sooner or later, word of his location would travel to the ears of those who wished to use him for their own gain. They have yet to make their presence known in Paris; a miraculous mercy, as Leonardo had made it a point to openly affirm your relationship wherever you walked together.  

You were startled out of your thoughts when a warm hand landed on your head. You looked up to find the object of your endless thoughts peering at you with sleep-laden honey-colored eyes.

“Been waiting for you to come to bed.” He rested against the door frame—a yawn catching him off-guard. “Thought I’d come snatch you from whatever’s keeping you away from me.”

He offered his hand, and you were pulled into his room, in all of its chaotic glory. You sat together on his bed, where you were pulled instantly into a full embrace against his chest. His nose tickled the side of your neck, sending a warm feeling through your spine. You eased into his arms, releasing the tension in your shoulders.

“Brava cara, now will you tell me what’s kept you pacing back and forth outside my room?” He coaxed you with a hint of amusement in his voice.

All of the words in your mind escaped, leaving you with a deafening silence. You took another deep breath and spoke slowly.

“This morning you said that…you’d want to get married, right? I mean—you didn’t necessarily say when, but I understood that you meant soon, whatever that may mean in vampire time.”  

“Never heard of vampire time,” he chuckled. “But the when is for us to decide together. The reason I brought it up is because I want you to start imagining it with me. This is part of my promise that we plan our future together, remember?”

“Yeah, and I’m happy about that! Really, I am. It’s just…” You turned in his embrace to face him, your anxious eyes burned into his. “What about your family? What will they think when they find out? I’d be in danger…” Your smile faltered, the sight of it breaking Leonardo’s heart.

“There is no way I would allow them to interfere,” he asserted with furrowed brows, deep amber eyes shone with determination. “Not them, not anyone. They can think what they want, but they don’t get to choose who I love and spend my life with.”

“While that is true, and I believe you. But that doesn’t eliminate the fact that they would still be resentful and could very well act on it.” You blinked back your tears. You didn’t want to get emotional and worry him further, but the truth of the matter was—

“Leonardo, I’m scared. I don’t know why, but it’s like I can feel the target aimed at my back. What would they do to us? Where would we hide? Are we meant, supposed to keep running away once they catch our scent? What about—?”

“MC.”

He cupped your face with both of his hands, gently wiping your free-flowing tears with his thumbs. Even through blurred vision, you saw the storm brewing in his eyes, but for now he spoke only in little gestures—the caressing of his thumbs, the gentleness of voice, the patience in his eyes. You rested your weary head into the crook of his neck, deeply inhaling his natural scent to calm yourself down. He stroked your arms soothingly in response.

Drowsiness replaced your anxiety now that you let it all out. You relished in the feel of his comforting touch. You dared not face him again and risk seeing the disappointment in his face from your hesitation to marry him. You fear that you failed to believe in the strength of your relationship, that your love could overcome all challenges. You confessed your fears to him, but he shook his head.

“You haven’t failed anyone, my love. If anything, this shows to me that you’ve been thinking hard about our future as much as I have…though maybe from a more pessimistic lens, don’t you think?”

“I’m sorry, Leonardo…” you murmured hesitantly, “if only I were a pureblood like you…” As soon as you said it, you regretted it. Your eyes widened when you were instantly crushed into another full embrace. His low voice spoke with resolute calmness.

“No matter what anyone says, you’re perfect for me just as you are. I will get to the bottom of this and eliminate the doubt in your heart, alright? Leave it to me.”

He kissed on your forehead, and you nodded silently, unable to keep your eyes open anymore.

Leonardo tucked his darling in bed, making sure that you were fast asleep before he slipped out of his room soundlessly. What you had said struck a chord with him because it was something he had thought about long before he met you. It was part of why he took up his old friend’s offer of living in this secluded mansion, though it did little to dissuade the incoming marriage proposals from his family. He knocked on his friend’s bedroom door, entering before he even heard a response from the other side.

“Leonardo, really, haven’t you the decency to wait, what if I was asleep?” said le Comte tiredly.

“We both know you don’t sleep, ‘Comte’,” replied Leonardo with a grin.

Le Comte de Saint-Germain sighed where he sat at his desk, responding to letters as he often did when sleep eluded him.

“What brings you here, certainly there’s more to your visit than want for banter?”

“It’s about mia famiglia, these letters, their presence in Paris. It’s affecting MC, and only today she confessed what I already feared. Didn’t think she noticed them around whenever we went to town, I made sure of that, but her intuition definitely caught on. They may have their sights on her, and I’m not going to wait for them to make a move.”

Le Comte put aside the pen and paper in his hands, leaning back in his armchair as he thought over their current predicament. He had many thoughts to share with his friend, but he held back, for now. After a long silence hung between them, he spoke.

“What do you suggest we do, then?”

~*~

Am I really ending it there? Looks like I am! 

What do you think Leonardo would do? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

*note: there’ s no planned contiuation at the moment—unless inspo strikes ✨

[roswell-rp-archive]

Give a warm welcome to our new arrivals! Please make sure you send in your character blog within the next 24 hours, have a look over our checklist and get acquainted with Roswell by exploring our locations page. We hope you enjoy your stay.

Selena Suksai (Fah Yongwaree  / Medic @ US Army)

Leonardo “Leo” Sijum (Charles Melton / Pharmacist)

Callum Laurent (Robert Pattinson / Tattoo Artist @ Black Box)

Christine Nam (Im Jinah / Socialite)

Dakota “Kota” Greene (Logan Lerman / Handyman @ Fornax Hardware)

fah yongwaree & she, her/ cis woman ‷ watch out , selena suksai has crash-landed into roswell !! they look twenty five years old and celebrate their birthday on thirtieth of june. they are from bangkok, reside in aurora apartments and are currently working as a medic for the us army,  now stationed at walker air force base (fletcher liu squadron member wanted connection). one thing you should know about them is they're mostly trained in muay thai,  japanese katana-play, and shuriken.‷ ( zoey, she/her, 23, est )

charles melton & he/him - male ‷ watch out , leonardo “leo” sijum has crash-landed into roswell !! they look twenty-nine and celebrate their birthday on march 21st. they are from roswell, nm, reside in moonbeam gardens and are currently working as a pharmacist. one thing you should know about them is he is a high ranking member in roswell’s drug ring‷ ( c, she/her, 24, est ) + alev’s ride or die WC

robert pattinson & he/him - male ‷ watch out , callum laurent has crash-landed into roswell !! they look thirty-two and celebrate their birthday on july seventh. they are from roswell, nm, reside in aurora apartments and are currently working as a tattoo artist at black box tattoo & piercing. one thing you should know about them is he is currently training for his red belt in mixed martial arts‷ + mattie laurent’s brother WC

im jinah & she/her, cis female ‷ watch out, christine nam has crash-landed into roswell !! they look thirty years old and celebrate their birthday on april 2nd. they are from beverly hills, california, reside in moonbeam gardens and are currently working as a socialite. one thing you should know about them is she just came out of a stint in rehab‷ ( mimi, she/her, 19, mst )

logan lerman & he/him/ cis male ‷ watch out , dakota "kota" greene has crash-landed into roswell !! they look twenty - eight years old and celebrate their birthday on october 5th. they are from homer, alaska, reside in greystone complex and are currently working as a handyman at fornax hardware. one thing you should know about them is he wouldn't be surprised if pigeons were government drones‷ ( mimi, she/her, 19, mst ) 

[enbyleighlines]

Context for those interested:

Witchfest au is a modern with magic au in which witchcraft is fairly common. Soren, Mist, and Micaiah are an example of three characters in the AU who practice witchcraft. Every autumn there is a week-long celebration of witchcraft called Witchfest, hence the name of the au. Also laguz used to act as familiars to witches but the practice largely fell out of favor.

Other notes:

Soren and Micaiah grew up as foster siblings; Stefan is their foster father. Their relationship is complicated. They would kill for each other but at the same time they disagree about nearly everything.

Most of the main cast lives in Ohma, which is still a small farming town in Crimea.

Ike plays baseball. Boyd, Mia, and Nephenee played with him on the same co-ed team in middle school. Their school wasn’t big enough to fill two separate baseball teams. Titania was their coach.

Ike and Soren met for the second time in middle school. Ike still saved Soren’s life when he was a young child living on the streets, but Ike doesn’t remember, because at the time Soren was in his transformed state.

The Branded can transform! But they cannot control their transformations, and they look like something in-between a laguz in their original state and a laguz in their transformed state (inspired by the designs of the Zunanma in that one graphic.) People used to mistake baby half-dragon Soren for a demon, especially since he only came out at night.

Ike’s father owns a handyman company that does home repairs and other miscellaneous jobs around Ohma and its neighboring farming towns.

After graduating high school, Soren and Ike move to Melior, the capital of Crimea and a large college town, so that Soren can study finance. They share an apartment and Soren works part-time at the campus cafe with Ilyana, Aimee, and the other members of the merchant caravan.

Micaiah and Mist largely practice apothecary (healing) witchcraft. Soren dabbles in a bit of everything, but he still has an affinity for wind magic. Wind spirits follow him around everywhere and only people with an affinity for wind magic can see them. Soren finds them annoying but at least they mostly listen to his commands. (Unless he tells them to get lost. They always ignore that command.)

Tons of queer characters. Soren has been pining for Ike forever. Ike is on the aroace spectrum and doesn’t realize that his strong feelings for Soren aren’t platonic. Mia is also aroace. Nephenee is a lesbian. Nearly all of the beast laguz are bisexual and/or polyamorous.

Soren and Micaiah used to live in Daein before moving to Ohma. Micaiah still keeps in touch with her Daein friends (Sothe, Edward, Leonardo, Jill, Laura, etc.)

And lots more, but this post is getting too long so I’ll stop here.

I’m thinking about my witchfest Tellius au again

Does anyone want to ask me questions about it? I feel like rambling

[liferoaming]

My Favourite Films: Part III

11. 500 Days Of Summer

““There is no such thing as love, it’s a fantasy.”

Joseph Gordon-Levitt might be one of my favourite actors after Heath Ledger and Leonardo DiCaprio. A film about a woman that pursues an affair with a guy at work that tests authenticity of a fling while the other falls deeply for the other. With its unpredictable storyline and the experience of anxiety one feels when they are in a new relationship, it really questions whether one’s experience was ever authentic?

12. Lolita

“Lolita, light of my life, fire of my loins. My sin, my soul. Lo-lee-ta: the tip of the tongue taking a trip of three steps down the palate to tap, at three, on the teeth. Lo. Lee. Ta. She was Lo, plain Lo, in the morning, standing four feet ten in one sock. She was Lola in slacks. She was Dolly at school. She was Dolores on the dotted line. But in my arms she was always Lolita.”

First of all, I apologise for such a long quote but I feel it supports the story in all of its glory. I have read Vladimir Nabokov’s book at least twice and I felt the film did it justice. Humbert Humbert grooms you as the audience to believe what he does is normality, that it is love, and that his longing to pursue the affair is acceptable...but in all seriousness Dolores (Lolita) is just a child. There is nothing more shockingly beautiful and disturbing than this film with superb performances from Dominique Swain and Jeremy Irons. Please watch it and make your own judgement.

13. Betty Blue

“I waited ages for a meaning in life”

A beautiful French film about a woman that is mentally unwell and falls in love with a handyman. I actually watched this with my parents and remember my father stating that it was a “very good film”. Betty’s fiery temperament attracts Zorg and their electricity is easily viewed on screen. It is both beautiful and heartbreaking as you watch her disintegrate into a shadow of her former self. A must watch film that will touch your soul.

14. Blue Is The Warmest Colour

"I have infinite tenderness for you, and I will my whole life..."

Another French film with a great soundtrack, especially the song “I Follow Rivers” by Lykke Li. The film explores vulnerability and our inquiry into our sexuality. Adele Exarchopoulos is absolutely stunning, she gives a an outstanding performance although unsettling at times to watch. Do we make mistakes until it’s too late?

15.Candy

"Oh right, like I held a gun to your head, did I? Held you down and hit you up did I?"

A film that touches my heart. The late Heath Ledger gives an outstanding performance with Abbie Cornish about drug addiction. You experience the highs and lows of what it is like to be an addict, the pressure your partner places on you to find the next hit with heartbreaking consequences.

[reigenhusband]

4kids tomura shigaraki. tom shaggy

Anon you're making me cry.

Tom Shaggy is a big mean handyman that breaks into the main character Mitchell's school with his shadow butler Calvin. Careful if it touches you! It'll make your skin dry and itchy and that's no fun!!!

Follow along as Tom and his friends Eugene (Twice), Tori (Toga), and Leonardo (spinner) as they try to put a stop to everyone's good time! : )

[ikeromantic]

Three Words

A Leonardo da Vinci story, occurs at the end of Ch. 15. Angst/fluff. Approx. 970 words.

First: That First Night

Previous: Dances with Vampires

After an embarrassing day of finding just how little he knew about dancing, Leonardo hid himself in the library. Despite le Comte’s assurance that his dancing was now competent, he felt anything but assured. Thankfully, there was still time before the ball and his old friend promised more lessons. A hard pill to swallow, but better than the alternative.

For today though, he was done dancing. He wanted to read, to sleep. To pull his compagna into his arms and forget everything but the way she smelled, the weight and shape of her fit tight against him. With a book in hand, he dozed on the library floor, dreaming of another world, where he could love his cara mia as she deserved to be loved. By a man, not an unchanging monster. 

And that was where she found him. As usual, Leo’s nonexistent internal alarm did not remind him he’d promised to meet her after her work was done. It was she that walked into the library, finding him half asleep. 

Leonardo cracked a yawn as he heard her step into the library. “Mmm, is that you?”

She put her hands on her hips, trying to hide the pink in her cheeks behind a show of irritation. “Yes, Leonardo.”

He chuckled. She was adorable, especially when she was like this. “And how did you find me, cara?”

“I followed the scent of your cigarillo. It led me true.” 

“I see. Something to remember next time, I guess.” Not that he’d really been hiding from her. Still, interesting that even a human could find him by that singular smell.

His joke did not land well for his compagna. She drew herself up as tall as she could get and tried to frown. “Next time? You know, it’s rude to make me hunt for you. Especially when it was you that arranged our meeting.”

Leo raised an eyebrow. “Is that so? How many times did I have to hunt for you, hm? It’s fair.”

Her lips curled into a small smile before she caught them and firmed them back to a frown. “All the same, it better not happen again.”

“Ah, you’re a harsh mistress cara mia. Making me do all the hard work.” He let out a theatrical sigh. To his surprise, she didn’t have another snappy comeback. Instead of continuing their banter, his compagna looked away and took her own long, shaky breath. 

“Aren’t we going to practice dancing some more? Let’s get going, Leo.” She sounded muted, her excitement from the prior day fled. 

Leonardo wondered what had happened that day to drain her of joy. She looked as pained as she had in her first days at the mansion. Unsure what to say, he reached for her and pulled his cara into his lap. 

She made a startled little sound, but didn’t look unhappy at the sudden embrace. “What-”

“I’m too tired to dance. Let’s just take a little nap together, yeah?” Leo smiled at her, hoping she’d give him a real smile back.

His compagna did not smile. “I don’t think this is a very good idea.”

“I think it is a very good one. Let’s do it.” 

She sighed. “You know, you are very hard to reason with.”

“I’ve never denied that.” Leo laughed softly, satisfied that she at least settled down. Her cheek rested against his chest, and he could feel her warm breath on his skin. It felt so good to hold her. To feel her heartbeat along with his. Racing hearts, the passionate rhythm of love, though he would deny it if anyone asked. He was only comforting his compagna, yes? Yes.

He felt her relax in his arms, tension leaving her shoulders and back. And then, to his surprise, he felt her breathing change. An almost silent whimper, and then warm tears soaking his shirt. She was crying, but she didn’t want him to know. His sweet cara mia, desperate to show him only her happiness. 

Leonardo wanted to rub her back, to kiss her tears away. But he did not want to betray this private moment she had not offered to share. Instead, he let her take what comfort she could from him and pretended to sleep. 

His compagna cried until her tears dried up. Her fingers clung to his clothes, her face pressed tight to his chest. When her breathing returned to a natural rhythm, she lifted her head to look at him. “Leonardo?”

He continued ‘sleeping.’ Leo could feel her studying him, making sure he was well and truly asleep. It was easy to feign. What wasn’t easy was keeping his expression in the natural lines of rest when she next whispered:

“Leonardo, I love you.”

There was so much passion in her words. A flame that threatened to burn away the careful construct of life Leo lived in the mansion. There were his books, his handyman work in town. His naps. A never-changing landscape of simplicity, where each day was much the same as the last. Safe, if melancholy. But she came to him like a storm, and with three words reshaped the landscape of his heart. 

She brushed a kiss across his lips. Feather light. The touch of a ghost or an angel. And then she fell back against his chest to weep again.

Leonardo joined the tears she shed to the ones bottled in his chest. The sorrow he felt already at knowing he would lose her. In a few weeks or months or years, it didn’t matter. The bliss of their love would be followed by centuries of despair. The more joy he took with her, the worse the loss would be. Though his face was still, inside he howled his grief.

Next: Designing Men

[mistaeq]

If your still doing the emoji, 🦋+Kira??

Kira Yoshikage + 🦋

TW // hands (??) come on it's Yoshikage

I was juuust really inspired for the handyman, you've been lucky anon !!💜

My name is Kira Yoshikage. I'm 33 years old. You don't surely have heard about me. I'm not the kind of man who wants to be on a newspaper, or to be known for something in particular.

My house is in the northeast section of Morioh, where all the villas are, and I am married. I would have never thought about this. It's a good feeling. Someone understood me. Someone accepted me. For the first time, I couldn't find the guts to kill someone whose hands I liked. What was attached to it caught my attention even more that the hands themselves.

I work as an employee for the Kame Yu department stores, and I get home every day by 6 PM at the latest. My shift was longer once, but now I have someone at home waiting for me. Two beautiful hands cooking for me and the even better person owning them always moving around the house, giving me life. Just like a butterfly.

I don't smoke, but I occasionally drink. I'm in bed by 11 PM, and make sure we both get eight hours of sleep, no matter what. My sweet half finds it kind and caring of mine, to worry about their biological clock, too.

After having a glass of warm milk and doing about twenty minutes of stretches before going to bed, I usually have no problems sleeping until morning. I'm usual to preparing warm milk or tea to my better half too, but I don't force them into stretching their muscles with me if they don't feel like it. If they want, they'll join themselves.

Just like a baby, I wake up without any fatigue or stress in the morning. I was told there were no issues at my last check-up. I'm trying to explain that I'm a person who wishes to live a very quiet life. I take care not to trouble myself and my love with any enemies, like winning and losing, that would cause me to lose sleep at night.

That is how I deal with society, and I know that is what brings me happiness, along with the newfound sensation of love. Everyday, even if we're now married, feels new. Although, if I were to fight I wouldn't lose to anyone.

But one day, I lost. The day I met them. As usual, I was taking the lunch break from my job at Kame Yu, my sandwich in my hands, as i sat under my favourite tree and let out a breath of relief in the middle of the peace the park was giving me. Not a single soul used to pass by. Not a single soul until that day.

For obvious reasons, I didn't want anyone to see me. A severed hand isn't the first thing you'd expect to find in the lunch bag of a Kame Yu employee. But I kept it there anyways. Nobody would be interested in looking in someone else's lunch bag. I couldn't even remember who that hand belonged to. Useless. Like the rest of Leonardo Da Vinci's painting, Mona Lisa, apart from the piece that used to be hung in my room's wall. Useless.

But they changed me. A butterfly passed right in front of my ordinary - in other people's eyes - gaze. I couldn't even take the time to pull my beloved severed hand out of the bag, when a finger, a beautiful finger appeared in my view, the butterfly graciously landing on it. I thought I had fallen in love. I looked at the person who owned those hands. And instead of just being an ability of my stand, the sheer heart attack happened in my chest.

"Sorry for bothering you, mr. Kira." they said, their voice pronouncing my name like the most delicate beating of wings of the most gracious butterfly. And I recognized them as a usual Kame Yu customer who had probably read the name tag on my work uniform before. Who knows why, after that day that insect kept on bringing them in front of me during my lunch break.

After four years, we got married. When I said yes, a butterfly, I could swear it looked like the same butterfly, landed on my nose.

[cleaningservicesusa]

A Guide to Painting and Carpentry Services in Florence

Florence, a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and world-class art, has long been a hub for painters and carpenters alike. Whether you're exploring the exquisite paintings that grace the city’s museums or looking for professional carpentry services for your home, Florence offers a wide array of options. In this article, we’ll delve into both the artistry of painting florence and practical carpentry services, including tips on finding local carpenters for hire.

The Art of Painting in Florence: A Historical and Modern Perspective

Florence Painting: A Legacy of Artistic Mastery

Florence has long been the birthplace of some of the world's greatest painters. From the iconic works of Leonardo da Vinci to the masterpieces of Michelangelo, the city's contributions to the art world are unparalleled. Today, Florence continues to be a vibrant center for painting, where both classical and contemporary works are celebrated.

Historical Significance: The city is home to a variety of museums and galleries, such as the Uffizi Gallery, which houses some of the finest collections of Renaissance art. Exploring Florence means encountering famous paintings like Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and Caravaggio’s Medusa. The art history in Florence is so rich that it often feels like stepping back in time, where every corner holds the story of an artist’s creative process.

Modern Florence Painting: While the Renaissance era may dominate Florence’s historical legacy, the city also boasts a vibrant contemporary art scene. Local galleries and exhibitions frequently feature paintings that mix traditional techniques with modern sensibilities. Whether you’re drawn to oil paintings, watercolors, or mixed-media works, Florence is home to both established and up-and-coming artists.

Painting in Florence Today: Professional Artists and Workshops

If you’re interested in exploring your own creative side, Florence is also an excellent place to take painting lessons. Many local artists and studios offer workshops for both beginners and advanced painters. These workshops often include visits to iconic locations within the city for plein air painting, giving you a chance to capture the beauty of Florence’s landscapes, streets, and architecture on canvas.

Carpentry Services in Florence: Finding the Right Professional for Your Needs

In addition to its artistic legacy, Florence is also home to highly skilled carpenters who specialize in a variety of woodworking services. Whether you need custom cabinetry, carpentry for home renovations, or a simple repair, there are numerous options to choose from.

Finding Local Carpenters for Hire

One of the most important factors when searching for carpentry services in Florence is finding a local carpenter who can offer both quality craftsmanship and reliability. Here are some tips on finding the right carpenter for your project:

Online Directories and Reviews: Websites like Yelp or Angie's List are a great place to start when searching for carpenters near you. You can find reviews from other customers that will give you insights into the quality of service provided. A simple search like "local carpenters for hire" will give you plenty of options to choose from.

Word of Mouth: One of the best ways to find a reputable carpenter is through recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors. If you’re in Florence, chances are, someone you know has worked with a local carpenter and can vouch for their work.

Specialized Services: Whether you need a trim carpenter near me for baseboards, crown molding, or wainscoting, or a carpenter handyman near me for general repairs, it's important to find a professional who specializes in the specific type of work you need.

Florence Cabinets: Custom Woodworking for Your Home

If you’re renovating your kitchen, bathroom, or any other room in your home, custom cabinets can make a huge difference in both function and aesthetics. Local carpenters in Florence offer tailored cabinet design and installation services, allowing you to create the perfect storage solution that fits your space and style.

Florence cabinets come in a variety of designs, from modern minimalist to traditional Tuscan styles. A professional carpenter can help you design a custom solution that maximizes space while complementing your home’s overall design.

Working with Carpenters and Painters: How to Make the Right Choice

Both carpentry and painting are art forms in their own right, and choosing the right professional can ensure that your project meets your expectations. Whether you're looking for a masterpiece to adorn your walls or skilled craftsmanship to enhance your home, here are a few things to consider:

Experience and Expertise: Look for painters and carpenters with extensive experience, particularly in the specific type of work you're interested in. Experienced professionals can offer guidance, ideas, and advice to improve your project.

Portfolio and References: Whether you're hiring a painter to create a mural or a carpenter to build custom furniture, always ask to see their portfolio or examples of previous work. If possible, get references from past clients to verify the quality of their work.

Communication and Collaboration: Good communication is key to ensuring that your vision is realized. Whether it’s discussing paint colors or wood finishes, choose a professional who listens to your ideas and offers practical suggestions.

Conclusion: Embrace the Art of Florence, From Paintings to Carpentry

Florence isn’t just a city for admirers of art—it’s a place where you can engage with the craftsmanship that has defined the city for centuries. Whether you’re inspired by the historic paintings in Florence’s museums or you’re ready to start a home improvement project with the help of local carpenters, this city offers an abundance of talent and expertise.

From finding a trim carpenter near me to exploring the art of painting in Florence, this beautiful city continues to be a hub of creativity and craftsmanship. Whether you’re renovating your home or discovering a new passion for painting, Florence provides the perfect backdrop for artistic expression and quality workmanship.

[filmjrnl365]

#135 Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019)

Director: Quentin Tarantino

USA

Tarantino’s latest movie is both an elegy, and a retribution. It laments and caricatures a Hollywood of a bygone era. A town where the gorgeous people lived in the Hollywood Hills, drove massive cars, and brokered movie deals with a handshake in moody cocktail lounges. Then things changed.

By the late 1960s and into the 70s, American culture was split, and the emergence of a younger, drug fueled counterculture generation began to re-shape a contemporary society that had emerged from the Depression and World War II. It is in this context that Tarantino begins his Hollywood fairy tale.

The film centers around the waning career of old school actor Rick Dalton (Leonardo Di Caprio), and his former stuntman / double turned handyman, Cliff Booth (Brad Pitt). Excellent performances by both of these actors carry the movie through its basic lamentation for the good ole days of Hollywood. Dalton struggles to keep a career afloat with the increasingly worse roles offered to him. To prop up his career, he succumbs to an offer doing Spaghetti Westerns in Italy. He returns to the United States to small acclaim, a sultry Italian actress bride, and a few paparazzi, but Hollywood has moved on to newer things.

Cliff Booth does more than household chores for Dalton. He has become the default psychologist for the macho star who has a fragile ego, and bursts into spontaneous crying jags over the demise of his identity and movie career. Dalton has a run in with a flirtatious young girl in Hollywood, and a ride back to Spahn Ranch takes Tarantino’s movie into its lamentation of the Hollywood beauty Sharon Tate (Margot Robbie) and the spectre of Charles Manson (Damon Herriman).

When watching this film (on 35mm), I was anxious to see how Tarantino was going to handle Hollywood’s version of the “third rail”, the death of Sharon Tate and the hideous Manson murders. I was barely old enough to remember the murders, however, I was of an impressionable age to watch the tv version, Helter Skelter. A strange, and ominous (for the time) portrayal of Charlie Manson and his “family’ of brainwashed young hippies that tried to incite a race war in America with the Tate /LaBianca killings. After the gruesome manner in which Sharon Tate and the others were murdered, things changed in America. Sure America was a violent and dangerous place, but this was different. So, an eerie and fascinating piece of American fact / folklore spun up around these Hollywood murders, and at the center of this horrific incident was the tragic loss of the beauty, Sharon Tate. America begrudgingly tolerated her husband, the director Roman Polanski. We credited his movie skills, but somehow secretly felt that the sheer beauty of Sharon Tate was out of his league. How had she wound up with him? This was yet another cultural chasm we had to reconcile.

The crucial point in the film; Tarantino takes the night of the Tate/ LaBianca and re-writes Hollywood history. Instead of the bloody massacre taking place, the killers have by mistake entered Dalton’s house, the wrong house. As they enter in through back doors, they find Cliff Booth under a temporary haze of celebratory LSD. He is alerted by his pit bull’s cues, and what ensues is a comical, revolting, bloody face bashing free-for all, where older generation Hollywood (and America) gets it’s bloody retribution for the loss of Sharon Tate.

Movies lie, and we let them lie to us. That’s part of the dance –we suspend judgement and slip away into their world, a world unlike ours. This can be a kind of salve for a psychic and cultural wound that has existed in America since the Manson murders. Sharon was gone, brutally taken from us, but Manson and his tribe lived on, and in many ways prospered in terms of cultural notoriety. A small empire of images and references was built on the strange icon of Charlie Manson; a dirty misfit that somehow wielded the charismatic power of a cult leader. (As an aside, an excellent book, The Girls written by Emma Cline (2017), also tells the Manson murder story, only this time from the vantage point of one of the girls.) Rock bands, t-shirts, books, movies- and the myth of Charles Manson grew, complete with the swastika carved in the center of his forehead like some kind of lunatic third eye.

The counter-cultural bloodbath that ensues may not go over well with some people. Some are going to see a handful of young girls get their faces smashed in by brutish male stereotypes, but that’s not the whole picture, that’s just part of it. What I saw was a kind of violence against history itself. A cathartic lashing out at the way it all worked out. Strangely, Manson is not murdered, only those sent to do the killings were. Odd, while Tarantino is taking liberties with history and folk lore, I’m not sure why Tarantino didn’t include Manson in this retribution, but he was spared and only appears briefly in the film. Not a bad thing in my opinion, we’ve seen enough of Manson already.

I left the theater with some questions. Mainly, how this movie is strangely appropriate for us at this point in American history. We are divided politically and emotionally in much the same way as we were during the late sixties. Our propensity to harm and damage others is played out every day through mass media and the internet. We are still trying to get up to speed with how blind, gruesome, and hateful we can be to one another, and we see these sickening tendencies magnifying, and accelerating. Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, lets us blow off a little collective steam. If gratuitous violence, revenge and beauty were to ever come together to act as a needed cultural tonic, this is it. I’m very doubtful Taratino went into this film with these intentions, and I’ve not researched it to find out. I went to the film to see the film. What I walked away with was an uneasy sense of relief, and some mixed emotions. Yes, perhaps it would have been better if history had turned as it did in the film. It would have been an easy fix of good guy kills bad guy and girls. I wish the shining beauty of Sharon Tate had been spared, it would have been a sparkling, golden, apparition of 1960’s optimism that could have prevailed over our collective cultural memory, but it didn’t really happen that way. Tarantino’s cranial smashing rampage soothes this loss only momentarily, and we are left with the sad reality of how things actually transpired.

This is exactly the point of personal conflict for Dalton and Cliff. But for the duration of this film, we get to see the nostalgia and the swagger of old Hollywood stardom come to our rescue. We can escape into the Hollywood Hills, wade into crystal clear swimming pools and drink the night away. Never mind the creep lurking in the bushes with a knife…not when you have a flame thrower.

 https://filmjrnl365.tumblr.com

[sciencespies]

Authorities Recover Intricate Renaissance Armor Stolen From the Louvre in 1983

https://sciencespies.com/history/authorities-recover-intricate-renaissance-armor-stolen-from-the-louvre-in-1983/

Authorities Recover Intricate Renaissance Armor Stolen From the Louvre in 1983

On May 31, 1983, two pieces of Renaissance-era metalwork vanished from the Louvre’s collections overnight.

Much about the theft remains a mystery. As Today24 News reports, officials at the Parisian museum have never clarified who carried the operation out or how the perpetrator managed to squirrel the artifacts away intact. But thanks to one quick-thinking appraiser, the armor itself has now been rediscovered and returned to its proper place in the museum’s halls, reports Agence France-Presse.

A military antiques expert was working to appraise an inheritance collection in Bordeaux when he spotted gold- and silver-encrusted body armor and a helmet that piqued his suspicion. He contacted police, who confirmed that the artifacts numbered among 100,000 stolen artworks listed on Treima, an online database of stolen fine art, according to Today24.

Local authorities are still investigating how the stolen works ended up in the Bordeaux family’s collections, reports Caroline Goldstein for Artnet News.

According to a Louvre statement quoted by CNN’s Jack Guy and Saskya Vandoorne, the theft “deeply troubled” museum officials, though the crime remained “little known to the general public.”

When the museum reopens to the public, the artifacts will go on display on the first floor of the Richelieu wing, the Louvre announced on Twitter.

“I was certain we would see them reappear one day because they are such singular objects,” Philippe Malgouyres, the Louvre’s curator of heritage artworks, tells AFP. “But I could never have imagined that it would work out so well—that they would be in France and still together.”

The Louvre announced the return of the two stolen objects on March 3, 2021. The items will be displayed on the museum’s first floor when it reopens.

(Musée du Louvre via Twitter)

Baroness Salomon de Rothschild, a member of the famous banking family, bequeathed the armor to the French state in 1922. Milanese metalworkers likely created the intricate pieces, which are valued at an estimated $600,000, between 1560 and 1580, per Artnet News.

“They are prestige weapons, made with virtuosity, sort of the equivalent of a luxury car today,” Malgouyres tells AFP. “In the 16th century, weapons became works of very luxurious art. Armor became an ornament that had nothing to do with its use.”

The body armor was designed to decorate one’s upper back and features the figure of a woman, as well as faces, wreaths and other patterns.

Thieves have stolen artifacts from the storied Paris museum’s collections before. In 1911, for instance, handyman Vincenzo Perugia made history when he snuck the Mona Lisa out of the Louvre—without an escape route or planned buyer—by hiding it beneath his clothes.

The crush of press coverage around the theft helped catapult Leonardo da Vinci’s portrait to worldwide fame.

As James Zug wrote for Smithsonian magazine in 2011, Perugia realized shortly after the crime “that he had not pinched an old Italian painting from a decaying royal palace. He had unluckily stolen what had become, in a few short days, the world’s most famous painting.”

Jean-Luc Martinez, president-director of the Louvre, tells AFP that the last time a work was stolen from the Louvre was in 1998, when a thief cut a landscape painting by 19th-century French painter Jean-Baptiste Camille Corot from its frame.

“We’re still looking for it,” Martinez adds.

#History