Encyclopedia of the Exquisite by Jessica Kerwin Jenkins
“A delightful ode to everyday elegance that brims with tales showing how beauty can be found in the most unlikely places. Encyclopedia of the Exquisite has the potential to make our lives that much more interesting. It left me truly inspired.”
—Sarah Jessica Parker
Taking a cue from the exotic encyclopedias of the sixteenth century, which brimmed with mysterious artifacts, Encyclopedia of the Exquisite focuses on the elegant, the rare, the commonplace, and the delightful. An illustrated compendium of style, it merges whimsy and practicality, traipsing through the fine arts and the worlds of fashion, food, travel, home, garden, and beauty. Subjects covered include the explosive history of champagne; the art of lounging on a divan; the emergence of “frillies,” the first lacy, racy lingerie; the ancient uses of sweet-smelling saffron; Julia Child’s tip for cooking the perfect omelet; the Indian origin of badminton; and the fanciful thrill of dining alfresco. The perfect hostess gift, Encyclopedia of the Exquisite is an ode to life’s plenty, from the extravagant to the eccentric. It is a celebration of luxury that doesn’t necessarily require money.
“A beautifully researched and written book. Every story — whether on the origins of badminton or the art of Renaissance sotleties — is fascinating and inspiring. I kept turning the page, wanting to learn more.”
—Tory Burch
“A wonderful mélange of chic and amusing tidbits — this book makes me smile.”
—Michael Kors
For more information and daily doses of compelling tidbits visit Jessica’s blog: www.encyclopediaoftheexquisite.com
Encyclopedia of the Exquisite by Jessica Kerwin Jenkins is on sale now from Nan. A Talese:
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