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Snuff and Snuff Bottles The Evolution of Snuff in China over the Past Five Centuries Colin Brady, Curator of Collections At the time snuff first arrived, the Chinese believed that it possessed medicinal qualities. The use of snuff was thought to help dispel colds, cure migraines, sinus and tooth pain, relieve throat trouble, as well as counter asthma and constipation. This connection to curing ailments led to its heightened usage as the centuries progressed. However, it was not until the eighteenth century that snuff-bottles were manufactured in large numbers.
In terms of Chinese history, snuff bottles are a recent development. Tobacco reached China toward the end of the 16th Century; similar in time to its introduction into England. At this time it was illegal to smoke tobacco, however, the finely granulated form of snuff was permitted because of its alleged medicinal qualities. Customs records document that by 1685 snuff was entering China, but this date may not represent its earliest arrival. Snuff would not come into common usage until it was accepted by the upper classes in the latter half of the 17th century. As the 18th century progressed, snuff found a foothold in several societal classes. The popularity of snuff would remain intact through the 19th century before fading out with the establishment of the Republic in 1912. September - December 2012
The traditional shape for snuff bottles was that of a small round bottle no more than three inches in height and able to fit in the palm of the hand. These containers were accompanied by an affixed wooden or ivory spoon located at the base of the cap. Snuff bottles were likely an evolution of the small medicinal bottles that were common in earlier periods in Chinese history. These bottles are made of a wide variety of materials that include coral, ivory, jade, mother of pearl, lapis lazuli, quartz, malachite, agate, turquoise, gold, and silver. Despite the number of exotic materials to choose from, glass remained one of the most popular mediums to work with. At the time glass was treated much differently by the Chinese than any previous period. It was cut and polished as if it were a precious stone. This treatment combined with the mixing of metal oxides meant glass bottles could become as unique as any rare mineral.
The Hermitage Museum has nearly one hundred snuff bottles in its collection. Across five decades of collecting Mrs. Sloane managed to acquire numerous finely carved bottles representing the styles of the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. Some of the finest examples from this collection are currently on display in the first floor galleries of the east wing and can be seen on either a selfguided tour, or with one of our docents. image: Snuff Bottle, China, signed Ye Zhongsan, dated 1913
Sunsets on the River Live Music on the Back Lawn
Fall Schedule of Bands Sept. 13: The Michael Clark Band Sept. 20: Big Red Tree Sept. 27: The Bartones Oct. 04: Esoteric Ramblers FREE for Museum members $7 for non-members Bring a picnic, blanket, and lawn chairs. Cash bar - no outside alcohol.
7637 North Shore Road • Norfolk, VA • 23505 • (757) 423-2052 • theHermitageMuseum.org
At the Visual Arts Studio Fall Courses & Workshops at the Hermitage Visual Arts Studio Melissa Ball, Public Programs Manager
All Hallows Eve Fall Family Celebration
Check out these Fall Workshops with longtime Hermitage instructor Rich Gray:
Autumn Origami
The changing leaves and colors of fall make the Hermitage an inspiring place to be. It’s a wonderful time to try out one of the Visual Arts Studio’s many offerings. With an informal atmosphere, diverse subjects, and knowledgeable instructors, students will enjoy a well-rounded art experience at the Hermitage. The Fall Session of Courses runs from September 8th through November 3rd and includes one and two-day workshops as well as eight-week long classes. Courses are offered in ceramics, digital photography, drawing, and mixed-media. This session will also feature several classes for children and families. Course details and online registration are available at www.thehermitagemuseum.org.
Saturday, September 29, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Fold a variety of colorful papers into seasonal decorations for use on greeting cards, table decorations, or displays. $15 for member + $3 materials fee $25 for non-members + $3 materials fee
Handmade Papermaking
Saturday, October 20, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Make sheets of paper that incorporate colored pulps and seasonal foliage. Your creations can be used as unique greeting cards or displayed as works of art. $15 for members, $25 for non-members Be sure to keep an eye out for our upcoming Holiday Workshops as well. Running November 24th through December 15th, these short workshops are perfect for creating one-of-a-kind holiday gifts and decorations.
Garden of Ghoulish Delights Friday, October 26
Sunday, October 28 1:00 - 5:00 p.m.
The family friendly Halloween event, All Hallows Eve, is back for its tenth year! Join us on Sunday, October 28th from 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. for an exciting afternoon full of activities including lawn games, art projects, face painting, balloon creations, Museum tours, performances, a costume contest, and more! Costumes are encouraged and welcome, but not required.
7:00 - 10:00 p.m.
A contribution of $5 is suggested.
Presented by the Garden Club of Norfolk and the Hermitage Museum & Gardens
Check online for a full schedule or contact Megan Frost, Membership and Development Manager, at 757-423-2052 x205 or mfrost@thehermitagemuseum.org.
Come casual or in costume and celebrate Halloween at the Hermitage. All proceeds from the event benefit the Hermitage Museum & Gardens. For detailed information and tickets visit www.thegardenclubofnorfolk.org. September - December 2012
In the Changing Galleries Recent Work Anne Iott Melissa Ball, Public Programs Manager
Members’ Opening Reception: Thursday, September 6, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Exhibition on Display: September 7 - October 30
which represent access, excess, surplus, and waste as they affect our lives physically and psychologically. The exhibit includes explanatory text and narratives to provide visitors with the fascinating and, in many cases, personal meaning behind the works of art.
The Hermitage is proud to welcome Anne Iott and her brilliant collection of new works. Anne, a Norfolk resident and former Hermitage Studio Artist, has received numerous awards and honors throughout her extensive career. She has participated in eleven solo exhibitions and over sixty group exhibitions.
A special members’ exhibition preview and cocktail reception will be held on Thursday, September 6th from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Guests will enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar, and the chance to meet the artist. The reception is free for Hermitage members and $5 for nonmembers.
The collection featured in this exhibition explores and highlights aspects of the environment as both a public and private matter. It includes large scale paintings which look at humans’ ambivalent regard for forests; a suite of small
prints recalling forgotten stories; twenty captured iChat images considering their ephemeral nature; two mandalas responding to the earthquake and tsunami in Japan; and thirty two postcards
Works are available for purchase. For details, contact the Public Programs Department at 757423-2052 x207. Image: Earthquake - Tsunami, The Aftermath by Anne Iott
Olive Leonhardt Colin Brady, Curator of Collections
Members’ Opening Reception: Thursday, November 29, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Exhibition on Display: November 30, 2012 - February 19, 2013 In 1939 Florence Sloane intended to hold an exhibit of works by New Orleans artist Olive Leonhardt. After having received critical acclaim earlier that year for her show in New York City, Olive’s future as a fixture in the contemporary art world appeared certaint. Despite positive reviews, the oncoming war effort and the challenge of exhibiting parallel to an artist such as Salvador Dali led to an overall lack of sales. This discouraging series of events led Olive to question her worth as an artist. Olive entered
the Sheppard and Enoch Pratt Hospital, a revolutionary mental health facility at the time, to repair her fractured opinion of herself. With the support of her family and the therapy of pencil on paper, she managed to return to society anew. Through the 40s and 50s she approached her work in a new manner, focusing on the incorporation of psychological elements and then various forms of abstract expressionism. The Hermitage will display a majority of the planned show from 1939 alongside selected pieces from her works at the Sheppard and Enoch Pratt Hospital. Join us in celebrating the works of this talented artist, as well as support the ambitious exposure of 20th century artists Mrs. Sloane had planned to introduce to Norfolk. Landscape with Cows by Olive Leonhardt
7637 North Shore Road • Norfolk, VA • 23505 • (757) 423-2052 • theHermitageMuseum.org
It’s All in the Details... Wedding Spotlight: DeAnna Casey & Aaron Katrancha Lil Acosta, Weddings and Events Manager Like the Hermitage, this wedding had incredible detail to it - you discover something new and wonderful each time around. DeAnna described the theme as “rustic French garden vintage shabby chic.” She used soft colors such as ivory, green, pink, and tan. These colors were used in birdcage centerpieces, mason jars, ties for the guys, floral arrangements for the ceremony aisle, all the bouquets, and bridesmaid dresses. The flowers included were lambs ear, dusty miller, peonies, hydrangeas, and ranunculus that carried the colors throughout. After a lengthy engagement, DeAnna Casey & Aaron Katrancha tied the knot at the Hermitage on June 4, 2011. “We were engaged for 20 months because we wanted a June wedding outdoors,” said the bride. “I knew I always wanted an outdoor garden party themed wedding. Aaron loved the idea of our ceremony and reception being on the water. We both won with the Hermitage.”
The ceremony aisle was lined with shepherds’ hooks holding a small colorful flower arrangement that lead to an altar decorated with fresh peonies. The bouquet was fastened using scraps from DeAnna’s dress where it had been altered. The centerpieces were rustic birdcages with green sheet moss that lined the bottom along with pink cabbage roses, ivory roses, and sage hydrangeas. A display of the couples’ family photos hung on vintage old
doors and the wedding cake was made to look like the bride’s wedding dress, with layers of ruffles. All of these small details combined to create the beautiful garden themed wedding that DeAnna had envisioned. The couple exited the reception in a 1966 Mustang while guests threw fresh flowers at them as they embarked on their new journey as husband and wife. Photography by Eleise Theuer
Event Spotlight: 75th Anniversary Gala, May 18, 2012
On Friday, May 18th the Hermitage held a Celebration Gala honoring the 75th anniversary of the Museum featuring dinner, drinks, and dancing. Live music was performed by the Glen Boswick Orchestra. H E R M I TA G E M U S E U M & G A R D E N S N E W S L E T T E R
Photography by Eleise Theuer
SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2012 VOLUME 8 ISSUE 3
The Water Tower Restoration of the Original Sunken Garden
Corporate Membership
Yolima Carr, Curator of Gardens & Grounds
Megan Frost, Membership Manager
When visiting the Hermitage, guests are welcomed by the Sloanes’ former Water Tower - a ‘light house’ like structure that sits on the shore of Lafayette River, surrounded by tall shrubs, trees, and native wetlands. Build in 1908, the Sloanes constructed the private water tower because the property was outside the city service area. By 1922, access to city water had become available and the Water Tower was enclosed (with the structure that exists today) and transformed into the Woodcarver’s Shop. Shortly after renovating the tower, Florence Sloane created a sunken garden next to the new building. Original drawings show that the small square garden featured a symmetrical design of beds with a bird bath in the center. It is thought that Florence Sloane once intended to house the first library in Norfolk for the study of wildlife and horticulture at this location.
Thanks to the fundraising efforts of the Algonquin Garden Club and their $3,500 donation, the Hermitage will be able to restore the sunken garden to its original beauty as designed by Mrs. Sloane. The once overgrown pathways will reemerge and delicate blooms propagated from the grounds of the Hermitage will fill the planting beds. This intimate yet ornamental garden will greet each and every visitor as they enter the Hermitage grounds. If your organization wishes to be involved with garden restoration efforts please contact Yolima Carr, Curator of Gardens and Grounds, at 757-423-2052 x202 for information about on-going projects.
The Hermitage Museum Corporate Membership Program is an initiative that offers businesses excellent visibility and hospitality opportunities in return for their support. As a corporate member, you demonstrate your commitment to the Hermitage Museum and the vibrant local arts community. Your tax-deductible investment in the Hermitage provides vital operating support for the Sloane Collection, educational programming, special exhibitions, and continuation of one of the most beautiful locations in Hampton Roads. Membership is available at a variety of levels, starting at $500.
Friday, September 21 and Friday, September 28, 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Members receive 10% off. Proceeds support the Hermitage Gardens.
Benefits of Corporate Membership include: • Recognition in Hermitage Annual Report • Recognition on the donor board in the Museum entrance • Company logo in newsletter • Logo with link on Hermitage website • Inclusion in event marketing materials • Tickets to the Sloane Society reception • Tickets to Hermitage events • Museum guest passes for employees • Discounts on new Museum memberships • Facility rental privileges
Available Plants Include: Asters Boxwoods Beautyberry Camellias Blackberries lily Daylilies Blue mist flower Ferns
For more information, or to join as a Hermitage Corporate Member, contact Megan Frost at 757-423-2052 x205 or mfrost@thehermitagemuseum.org.
images (clockwise from top left): Water Tower in 1908, Woodcarver’s Shop circa 1922, Original Design of Sunken Garden
Fall Plant Sale
Hellebores Hibiscus Hostas Iris
H E R M I TA G E M U S E U M & G A R D E N S N E W S L E T T E R
Lavender Leopard Plant Mexican sage Obedient plant
Poet’s Laurel Rose Mallow Wax Myrtle Wisteria
SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2012 VOLUME 8 ISSUE 3
Programs & Events
September
6• Recent Works: Anne Iott Exhibition on display (Changing Galleries): September 07 - October 9 Members’ Opening Reception: September 6, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
7• Friday Night Films Singin’ in the Rain, movie begins at 9:00 p.m.
8• Visual Arts Studio, Fall Session of Courses September 8 - November 3
13• Sunsets on the River: The Michael Clark Band Live music on the back lawn, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. 20• Sunsets on the River: Big Red Tree Live music on the back lawn, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. 21• Fall Heirloom Plant Sale 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Fall Heirloom Plant Sale Featuring natives, heirlooms, and shrubs. Proceeds from sales support the Hermitage Gardens. Hermitage Museum members receive 10% off plant sale purchases. Friday, September 21, 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. and Friday, September 28, 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
27• Sunsets on the River: The Bartones Live music on the back lawn, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. 28• Fall Heirloom Plant Sale 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
October
4• Sunsets on the River: Esoteric Ramblers Live music on the back lawn, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
7• Downton Abbey Garden Party (WHRO event) 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. Ticket info. at whro.org or laura.payne@whro.org
All Hallows Eve
26• Garden of Ghoulish Delights Presented by the Garden Club of Norfolk
This family friendly event features outdoor activities, performances, Museum tours, and a Kids Costume Contest. Costumes are encouraged and welcome, but not required.
28• All Hallows Eve Fall Family Celebration, 1:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Sunday, October 28, 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. Admission: Suggested $5 Contribution
November 11• Virginia Roast and Toast Barbeque and Oyster Roast, 3:00 - 6:00 p.m. 24• Holiday Workshops at the Visual Arts Studio November 24 - December 15 29• Olive Leonhardt Exhibit Exhibition on display: November 30, 2012 - February 19, 2013 Members’ Opening Reception: November 29, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
December In lieu of a holiday party, the Hermitage is now offering several special exhibition openings for members throughout the year. For pricing and details, visit www.theHermitageMuseum.org or call (757) 423-2052
September - December 2012
Olive Leonhardt Exhibition Revisiting an exhibition planned in 1939 by Florence Sloane, featuring paintings and drawings by the late New Orleans based artist Olive Leonhardt. Exhibit on Display: November 30, 2012 - February 19, 2013 Opening Reception: November 29, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Hermitage Welcomes New Volunteer Coordinator, Allie Lane Colin Brady, Curator of Interpretation As the Hermitage continues to grow we look to encourage more volunteers to assist us in our endeavor to provide a unique museum experience. To accommodate this rising interest we have hired a volunteer coordinator, Allie Lane, to help manage this influx of support. Where did you attend school? I am originally from Scottdale, Pennsylvania and moved here a year ago. I received my B.A. in History from Lock Haven University and my M.A. from Duquesne University in Public History. I have also volunteered and interned at a number of museums in the Pittsburgh area. You have been with the Hermitage as a volunteer and docent. From your experience what kind of volunteers does this museum need? We are looking for volunteers to be Museum docents, work in the gardens, and provide assistance with special events. The most
“(Volunteers) have the opportunity to share their passion with visitors as well as other docents and Hermitage staff.” important characteristic that we’re looking for in our volunteers is a passion to help increase awareness of our Museum and Gardens throughout the community. We are looking for volunteers who love the Hermitage and enjoy encouraging visitors to explore everything we have to offer. What makes volunteering at the Hermitage unique over other institutions in Hampton Roads? The combination of art, history, and gardens makes the Hermitage a unique place, but what really makes it unique for the volunteers is that they are able to connect with like-minded people from the community and beyond on a regular basis. For example, if an individual is particularly interested in art, they have the opportunity to share their passion with visitors as well as other docents and Hermitage staff.
How would you like to see this program evolve over the next few years? My goal for this program over the next few years is to have a diverse and stable volunteer base that supports all the Hermitage’s efforts to encourage appreciation of art and the environment throughout the community and beyond. I hope to do this by providing volunteers with a fun environment for them to share and build on their knowledge, skills, and expertise. If you would like to volunteer with us or know someone who might be interested, email Allie at volunteercoordinator@thehermitagemuseum.org or call her at 757-423-2052 x204. You can also visit our website for more information about the different volunteer opportunities offered at the Hermitage Museum & Gardens.
Virginia Roast and Toast Megan Frost, Membership & Development Manager
Sunday, November 11 3:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Presented by the Hermitage Young Associates Board All inclusive tickets: $40 members, $50 non-members Advance ticket sales only - purchase tickets online at theHermitageMuseum.org. Join us for the third annual Virginia Roast & Toast featuring Virginia oysters, barbeque, craft beer, and wine. Event is rain or shine - no pets.
images: 2011 Roast and Toast, Chalie Gunter Photography
7637 North Shore Road • Norfolk, VA • 23505 • (757) 423-2052 • theHermitageMuseum.org
William S. Hull Emeritus
F. Nash Bilisoly Stephen P. Blashfield Nancy W. Branch Pam Q. Combs Benjamin G. Cottrell, V Alex D. Erving Barbara Hamm Lee Sandy Harris Eleanor A. Lewis Nancy L. Martin Elizabeth F. Melchor Jennifer W. Moore Trish R. Pfeifer Susan M. Roady Kerri R. Stokes James A. Valone
Nancy H. Nusbaum Secretary
Olin L. Walden Treasurer
Christine G. Neikirk Vice-President
Robert E. Garris, Jr. President
Board of Trustees
Address Service Requested
Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Norfolk, Virginia Permit: No 175
• Admission (exclusive of tax) Adults $5 Children (ages 6-18) $2 College Students (with ID) $3 Members & Active Military FREE
H E R M I TA G E M U S E U M & G A R D E N S
SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2012
Call (757) 423-2052 for additional information on house tours.
Tours begin promptly on the hour Last tour begins at 4:00 p.m.
• Schedule of Tours Mon - Sat 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sunday 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Closed Wednesdays/Thursdays
Hermitage House Tours
To all those having served, presently serving, and soon to serve the Board and the Hermitage Museum & Gardens, we thank you all!
Steven comes to the Hermitage via Richmond, Virginia and an association through the Virginia Association of Museums, Alex joins us after two years served on the Hermitage Young Associate Board, and without the help of Sue the Hermitage would not have orchestrated the 75th Anniversary Gala.
Speaking of the future, the Hermitage wishes to welcome three new Trustees to the Museum and the Board. Please join us in welcoming Steven P. Blashfield, Alex D. Erving, and Susan M. Roady.
These Trustees have been with the Hermitage as the organization has moved forward with capital improvement projects, developed new and exciting public programs, and ushered in a membership program. We thank them for positioning the Hermitage for the future.
The Hermitage Museum & Gardens wishes to thank the following Trustees for having served the Museum well for the past nine years: K. Maxwell Dale, Barbara B. Laws, John B. Meek, and Elizabeth F. Melchor.
Melanie Mathewes, Executive Director
Hails and Farewells: Board of Trustees