The owner of Walker–Cunningham Fine Art, Sarah B. Cunningham, and the director of the Missouri Historical Society’s library and collections, Christopher Gordon, weigh in on some cocktail accoutrements.
Cunningham: The amber-colored bobèches on these Art Deco–style holders caught my eye. They’d add luster and a happy vibe to any gathering.
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Gordon: History says the first cocktail party was hosted by Mr. and Mrs. Julius S. Walsh Jr. in their Lindell Boulevard home in 1917. These simple but beautiful candlesticks would have fit perfectly in their parlor.
Cunningham: This glassware hits the bull’s-eye for an MCM-inspired cocktail hour. I love the frosted stripes and metallic gold accents. Grab the shaker, the good bourbon, and a tray of those fantastic oversized ice cubes!
Gordon: Elegant, comfortable, and worthy of any gathering. Drinking from one would make me feel like I was in the presence of Gore Vidal or Henry Kissinger.
Cunningham: Fall promises a spectacular display from the city’s ginkgo specimens. And what’s better than bringing in a bit of shine and whimsy year-round?
Gordon: Definitely a conversation piece. The reflective glass vase and its simple arrangement remind me of a living room in the 1980s.
Cunningham: The carved Greek key edge with tapered legs brings the glamour. The mirrored tabletop reflects the warmth of the room.
Gordon: Undoubtedly studio mogul Cecil B. DeMille had this table in his Hollywood living room. It’s a great expression of a classic era.
Cunningham: I’m imagining a neat pyramid of Ginger Gold apples atop these tazzas for a vibrant show of complementary colors. Or perhaps it’s a selection of artisanal cheeses and handmade crackers on my dinner party table.
Gordon: The perfect vessel for a flowing cluster of grapes. Including this ancient-looking piece as part of the hors d’oeuvres table would add a touch of Roman bacchanalia to your party.
