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Finding the Right black-white-photography for You
There’s a lot to love about black and white photography.
The unique and timeless quality of a black and white photograph accentuates any room. Some might argue that we’re naturally drawn to color photography because it’s the world we know best. This is a shared belief, particularly in the era of camera-phone photography, editing apps and the frenetic immediacy of sharing photos on social media. But when we look at black and white photography, we experience deep, rich shadows and tonal properties in a way that transfixes us. Composition and textures are crisp and engaging. We’re immediately drawn to the subjects of vintage street photography and continue to feel the emotional impact of decades-old photojournalism. The silhouettes of mountains in black and white landscape photography are particularly pronounced, while portrait photography and the skylines of urban cityscapes come to life in monochrome prints.
When decorating with fine photography, keep in mind that some color photographs may not be suitable for every space. However, you can be more daring with black and white photos. The gray tones are classic, sophisticated and generally introduce elegance to any corner of your home, which renders black and white prints amazingly versatile.
Black and white photography adapts to its surroundings like a chameleon might. A single large-scale black and white photograph above the sofa in your living room is going to work with any furniture style, and as some homeowners and designers today are working to introduce more muted tones and neutral palettes to dining rooms and bedrooms, the integration of black and white photography — a hallmark of minimalist decor — is a particularly natural choice for such a setting.
Another advantage to bringing black and white photography into your home is that you can style walls and add depth and character without worrying about disrupting an existing color scheme. Black and white photographs actually harmonize well with accent colors such as yellow, red and green. Your provocative Memphis Group lighting and bold Pierre Paulin seating will pair nicely with the black and white fine nude photography you’ve curated over the years.
Black and white photography also complements a variety of other art. Black and white photos pair well with drawings and etchings in monochromatic hues. They can also form part of specific color schemes. For example, you can place black and white prints in colored picture frames for a pop of color. And while there are no hard and fast rules, it’s best to keep black and white prints separate from color photographs. Color prints stand out in a room more than black and white prints do. Pairing them may detract attention from your black and white photography. Instead, dedicate separate walls or spaces to each.
Once you’ve selected the photography that best fits your space, you’ll need to decide how to hang the images. If you want to hang multiple photos, it’s essential to know how to arrange wall art. A proper arrangement can significantly enhance a living space.
On 1stDibs, explore a vast collection of compelling black and white photography by artists such as Mark Shaw, Jack Mitchell (a photographer you should know), Berenice Abbott and David Yarrow.
- Are sword canes practical?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022Whether or not sword canes are practical is largely a matter of personal opinion. During the days when men carried swords with them, a sword cane made it possible to discreetly bring one along. To some, this makes them more practical than other historic swords. Shop a selection of swords on 1stDibs.
- Are cane swords real?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, cane swords, or swordsticks, are indeed real. The cane containing a hidden blade became popular in the 18th and 19th centuries. You can find an assortment of cane swords from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- What is a Toledo sword?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 26, 2021A Toledo sword is a sword famously made of Toledo steel, a hard type of steel and particularly high-quality alloy made in a city called Toledo in Spain. Toledo steel is internationally known, and Toledo is one of the country’s oldest cities.
- What is a Japanese sword called?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022What a Japanese sword is called depends on its length. A short sword is a wakizashi, which means "side arm." The longer, more well-known sword is the katana. Samurai carried both types of swords. The pair is known as a daisho, which translates to "big and small." Shop a variety of Japanese swords on 1stDibs.
- Can I buy ancient swords?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022Yes, you can sometimes buy ancient swords. However, many of the weapons that survive from ancient times are already in the collections of museums and unlikely to go on sale. When they are available, you will usually find them selling for high prices at auctions. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of antique swords.
- What is a Thai sword called?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022A Thai sword is called a daab or darb or by the Burmese name for the weapon, dha. By any name, the sword has a single curved blade and a cross-section grip. Shop a selection of antique swords on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021Sabers are backswords that have a curved blade. During the early modern and Napoleonic periods, light cavalry employed sabers. A sword is a bladed, edged weapon designed for manual cutting or thrusting.
- What are wood swords called?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022What wood swords are called depends on their style and where they are made. In Japan, typical wooden training swords are called bokken, while a larger, heavier version is called suburitō. Find a collection of antique swords from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- What is a French cane?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022French cane is a type of tall grass that is known for being flexible and durable. French cane is often braided to create a woven texture that adds an eye-catching detail to furniture. Shop a collection of French cane furniture on 1stDibs.
- What is a caned bed?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022A caned bed is one that is made by using rattan bark, and weaving it into a mesh of split canes, which is then stretched over parts of the framework. In bedroom furniture, this would most likely be the headboard and footboard of the bed. Shop a collection of caned furniture from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- What is a cane chair?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Cane chairs feature a woven pattern on either the seat or the back. They're called “cane” chairs because the woven part is made of cane, which is basically the skin of a rattan vine. Once it's peeled off, it's woven into the intricate pattern for furniture.
- What is cane on a chair?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Cane is made by using rattan bark, a plant with a long stem. It is woven into a mesh of split canes, which is then stretched over parts of the framework. In this case, cane is woven to make a chair seat and back, for a rustic look. On 1stDibs, find a range of cane chairs from some of the world’s top sellers.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The three main cane classifications are called standard canes, offset canes and multiple-legged canes. A standard cane might be referred to as a single-point cane and is meant to improve balance but not support weight. An offset cane can take some weight-bearing but only occasionally. A multiple-legged cane is the best option for weight-bearing support. On 1stDibs, find vintage and contemporary canes from top sellers around the world.
- Are cane chairs strong?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, a properly cared for cane chair is very strong. Because cane is a plant fiber, it can dry out and become brittle over time. However, with proper oiling and by keeping your chairs out of direct sunlight, you can enjoy your cane chairs for many years to come. You’ll find a wide selection of cane furniture, including chairs, on 1stDibs.
- Are cane headboards sturdy?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Whether or not cane headboards are sturdy depends on how they are made. Finely crafted headboards are generally durable. However, antique and vintage examples that have become warped or damaged over time may not be sturdy even if initially well-made. Shop a selection of cane headboards on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023Whether cane chairs are comfortable is largely a matter of personal opinion. Designs vary widely, but pieces with upholstered seats may provide plusher support. On 1stDibs, find a variety of cane chairs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022While cane back chairs have been made around the globe for thousands of years, it was in the 1970s that this style took the world by storm and became a must for many households. It’s the organic, natural look of a cane back chair that made it so desirable and that makes it a modern furniture element as well, with its tropical vibe and vacation attitude. Shop a collection of cane back chairs from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021The best walking cane is the one that is properly sized for the individual who will be using it. Walking canes are designed to take pressure off when walking hence it is important that the person can stand as upright as possible, with their elbow slightly bent. Find a collection of antique and vintage walking canes on 1stDibs today.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021There are many types of wood used for walking canes. When choosing wood for a walking cane it is important to consider its weight, durability, availability and appearance. Find a collection of antique and vintage wooden walking canes on 1stDibs today.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021The best type of walking cane is a matter of choice. Look for basic features — it should have an easy grip and a contoured handle for ease of holding. Find a variety of vintage and antique walking canes on 1stDibs.
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