If you have by a hair's breadth read my article on the Examiner, you know that I have developed quite a love for angel trumpets. My first angel trumpet was a purple, which I have not seen anywhere else. My sister-in-law Gail, an angel in her own rectitude, in Virginia grew a very impressive angel trumpet last year. This is definitely an example of an angel trumpet that grew into a tree.

Source: Dena's Garden

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 Take a circa 1960's pressed wood gilt reproduction and turn it into something useful. You probably had a Syroco mirror in your house growing up, or visited one in your grandparent's home if you are more youthful. They have become collectible in the last few years, and prices are rising. There are even later Japanese blow offs of the Syroco style. These were usually made of molded plastic with a sprayed gold finish. They even had the gall to call them "Syrocco" with an remarkably C added to the name, or "Sirroco" is sometimes seen.


The term "Syroco" has also been used to describe many different stylistic pressed wood collectibles, though the physical pieces originated from at least a couple different manufacturers, chiefly The Syracuse Ornamental Company (hence "Syroco") of Syracuse, New York and Multi Products, Inc. of Chicago.

During the '30s and '40s, Multi Products and Syroco created products for ordinary use such as corkscrews, decorative mirrors, bookends, thermometers, ashtrays, tie racks, and other items. Numerous souvenirs were also manufactured for events and locations, including the New York Domain's Fair 1939. 


In 1962, Syroco started to make it's own plastic decorative items. I believe that the company saw the popularity of the cheap foreign copies, and decided to fight back. The company ceased business in 2007.



This reflector was the real Syroco deal. It is a pressed wood frame that has had the mirror removed and replaced with a magnetic chalk cabinet insert. Painted in a great red burgandy finish and lightly highlightd in gold, it makes a perfect besides to my kitchen nook.I found this gem on Etsy, but also take a look on Ebay under "Hollywood Regency" or "Syroco mirror."

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