The wallpaper pattern, not the mistletoe and pipe-cleaner craft project, clearly one of the more daring offerings at the Methodist Church Christmas Bazaar of 1954 (daring because I believe that Methodists in those days seldom kissed).

But seriously.  The 50s could be very bold upon occasion, wouldn't you agree?  On a ground of black-striped chocolate, two alternating medallions the size of turkey platters, oval and octagonal, trimmed in pale lavendar and comprising two vignettes, one of the American bald eagle, wings outstretched and with patriotic shield emblazoned on its breast, the other a still life of military accoutrements, crossed spears and a stylized sprig of olive branch, both accomplished in shades of rusty red, caramel, off-white and Wedgewood blue. 

 

Another view, circa 1957, with a detail of my brother's shoulder and an oak Eastlake marble-topped bureau in the background.  I have never seen this particular wallpaper pattern anywhere outside of my family's country house in western Pennsylvania -- our full-time residence through much of the Eisenhower era, (and if you happen upon an extant example of it anywhere do let me know) but I think you will agree, it would be difficult to find a more dramatic statement in American interior decorating for this time period, at least while Ike and Mamie were in the White House. 

Speaking of statements, you will not be surprised to hear that I braved the crowds at the Westside Pavillion yesterday to see "A Single Man," written, directed and produced by Tom Ford.  Set in another era (circa Cuban Missile Crisis) with a different aesthetic as seen from the point of view of one of today's most notable tastemakers, but no less powerful in its fashion.  I only wish I had Julianne Moore around to laugh like that more often -- the kind of infectious laughter that could easily take you with it into a good cathartic cry.  She makes you want to hold her in your arms forever.

As for Matthew Goode, whether curled up with a dog and a novel or in a sailor's whites, one is reminded that certain types of beauty never go out of style.

Merry Christmas my darling.