Precious Cargo: Beauty, Books, Vinyl

LA PRAIRIE Platinum Rare Haute-Rejuvenation Mask Step into the realm of luxury skincare with La Prairie’s Haute-Rejuvenation Mask, a nocturnal wonder that brings the essence of coveted aesthetic procedures to your fingertips, sans needles. Crafted with patented Macro-Infusion Technology, this potent two-step mask infuses your skin with moisture, plumping and smoothing away wrinkles, and refining texture from the very first application. Unlocking skincare secrets, La Prairie employs its unique Macro-Infusion Technology to deliver key ingredients like high molecular hyaluronic acid and collagen, typically unable to penetrate skin barriers, augmented by the Platinum Multi-Peptide and La Prairie’s Exclusive Cellular Complex™ for immediate, transformative results. Commence your journey with the silky gel, sealed in vials to preserve potency. Rapidly absorbed, it primes for the decadent cream, cocooning skin in comfort and radiance. La Prairie recommends weekly use, with thrice-weekly application for maximal results. While the price tag may give pause, the undeniable efficacy of the mask makes it a worthy investment in the pursuit of enduring beauty. Because when it comes to indulgence, some luxuries are simply non-negotiable. $1,740 www.laprairie.com

Le Domaine – The Creme This visionary venture stems from the creative mind of Hollywood icon Brad Pitt, yet transcends the realm of mere celebrity endorsement. Pitt’s engagement in the line is palpable, having collaborated closely with the esteemed Perrin family, renowned vintners of Château Miraval wines, to breathe life into Le Domaine. Drawing inspiration from the antioxidant potency of grapes, each product in the range is meticulously crafted with natural wonders like grape water, organic olive oil, shea butter, and ayurvedic plant extract, complemented by patented formulas GSM10 and ProGR3 to amplify its efficacy. The outcome? A sumptuous, whipped-cream texture, delicately scented to cocoon your skin in authentic comfort. Effortlessly diminishing wrinkles and fine lines, this opulent creme erases signs of fatigue and infuses your skin with vitality and luminosity. $242 www.beaudomaine.com

Trish McEvoy X Eau de Parfum More than just a fragrance—it’s a heartfelt tribute to love, crafted with exquisite ingredients that evoke the warmth and security of an embrace from a loved one. This enchanting scent is spun from a harmonious blend of calming lavender, sunny-sweet Italian bergamot, saffron, delicate rose, and opulent amber. From the moment it touches your skin, X envelops you in a sense of comfort and serenity, like a gentle caress from someone dear. The soothing lavender and invigorating bergamot dance together, creating a symphony of emotions that uplift the spirit and soothe the soul. As the fragrance unfolds, notes of saffron and rose add depth and complexity, reminiscent of the multifaceted nature of love itself. Finally, the rich amber base lingers on the skin, leaving a trail of warmth and sensuality that captivates the senses. $275 www.trishmcevoy.com

The Crown Season 6 Soundtrack By Martin Phipps (Music on Vinyl) Bafta award-winning composer Martin Phipps delivers a score that reflects the growth and stature of the family as they navigate tumultuous times. The music in the last season evolves to mirror the somber and foreboding tone of the relationship between Princess Diana and Dodi Fayed which ends in the tragic car accident, leaving the royal family left to grapple with the aftermath. Used sparingly this time, the score possesses a suppressed yet powerful essence, demanding the listener’s full attention. Tracks like “Sacrifice” delicately blend piano and simple strings, evoking a sense of poignancy and introspection. While “Limerick Reimagined” stands out as a clever variation of Rupert Gregson-Williams’ theme from the first season. Fans of “The Crown” will find themselves drawn to collect all six volumes of the soundtrack on vinyl, offering a proper salute to the series they are sad to bid farewell to. Limited edition of 1000 individually numbered copies on “Royal Blue” colored vinyl. www.musiconvinyl.com

Ammonite Soundtrack By Dustin O’Halloran & Volker Bertelmann (Music on Vinyl) Beautifully encapsulates the essence of the poignant drama, loosely based on the life of British paleontologist Mary Anning. Clocking in at under 30 minutes, this short yet compelling score proves that quality often outweighs quantity. The melodies are soft, bucolic, and tender, evoking a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. With an ensemble of strings and piano, O’Halloran and Bertelmann craft a musical landscape that exudes subtlety while still delivering a profound emotional impact. What sets this soundtrack apart is its coherence and seamless flow. There are no jarring musical changes or disruptions; instead, each track transitions seamlessly into the next, creating a cohesive listening experience. Limited edition on 180 gram translucent blue coloured vinyl. www.musiconvinyl.com

Sarah McLachlan – Fumbling Towards Ecstasy (Barnes & Noble Exclusive) is a masterclass in musical prowess, seamlessly blending Pierre Marchand’s atmospheric production with McLachlan’s exceptional songwriting skills. Each track on the album is a gem, intricately weaving sensuality, darkness, and lushness into rhythmic dreamscapes that captivate the listener’s imagination. Exclusive to Barnes & Noble, the album’s release on Glass Bottle Clear Vinyl elevates the auditory experience, complemented by exquisite visual aesthetics. This edition of “Fumbling Towards Ecstasy” offers fans an unparalleled journey through McLachlan’s strongest album to date. Includes the bonus track, Blue. $27.99 www.barnesandnoble.com

Così Come Sei (Soundtrack) By Ennio Morricone (Cinevox) A captivating journey through romantic atmospheres and celestial melodies, orchestrated with Morricone’s legendary touch. The compositions come to life with the enchanting sounds of wind instruments, enriched further by the ethereal vocals of I Cantori Moderni di Alessandro Alessandroni’s choir and the soulful tones of Oscar Valdambrini’s trumpet. Originally released in 1978, this soundtrack has remained a cherished gem for almost four decades, captivating listeners with its timeless allure. Now, after years of anticipation, it returns to vinyl in a spectacular reissue, featuring remastered audio and a new graphic layout. Pressed on 180g solid pink vinyl, this re-release offers audiophiles a chance to experience Morricone’s masterpiece in all its glory. www.amazon.com

BOOKS

Collaboration: A Potential History of Photography By Ariella Aïsha Azoulay et al (Thames & Hudson) A consortium of five luminaries in the field joins forces with a multitude of visionaries, spanning photographers, writers, critics, artists, and scholars. This groundbreaking work delves into the intricate dynamics of coercion and cooperation, friendship and exploitation, as well as shared interests and competitive spirits, unraveling the tapestry of collaborative endeavors in photography. Accompanied by 724 vibrant illustrations, the book presents a captivating juxtaposition of images and accompanying narratives, providing a multifaceted exploration of themes, geographies, contexts, and historical events. Through a kaleidoscope of quotes, testimonies, and concise texts, the collaboration offers an enriching panorama of the diverse facets of photographic collaboration, making it an indispensable addition to the canon of photographic literature. www.thamesandhudsonusa.com

Separate Cinema – The First 100 Years of Black Poster Art By John Duke Kisch (RAP) a breathtaking tribute to the rich legacy of black film poster artistry spanning a century. With meticulous attention to detail, this sumptuous volume traces the evolution of the Black film industry, from its nascent roots in Hollywood to its present-day prominence. Enriched by insightful commentary, including a compelling foreword by esteemed black history authority Henry Louis Gates, Jr., and a poignant afterword by cinematic luminary Spike Lee, the book offers a compelling narrative woven through a treasure trove of imagery sourced from the esteemed Separate Cinema Archive. A must-have for aficionados of both art and cinema, the book captivates and educates, offering a window into a century of black cinematic excellence. www.reelartpress.com

Winogrand Color By Garry Winogrand (Twin Palms Publisher) A captivating homage to the early color endeavors of iconic American photographer Garry Winogrand. While renowned for his dynamic black-and-white street captures, Winogrand’s lesser-known repertoire boasts over 45,000 vivid color slides, spanning the 1950s to the late 1960s. This groundbreaking monograph unveils a nostalgic tapestry of American life, from the bustling streets of Manhattan to the tranquil shores of Coney Island and the expansive vistas of the American West. With 150 carefully curated photographs sourced from the archives at the Center for Creative Photography, this volume offers poetic insights into the everyday rhythms of postwar America, marking a significant milestone as the first comprehensive exploration of Winogrand’s colorful oeuvre. www.twinpalmspublisher.com

Arent & Pyke – Interiors Beyond the Primary Palette By Juliette Arent & Sarah-Jane Pyke (Thames & Hudson) Renowned for their innovative use of color and materials, the duo unveils their design philosophy centered on the psychology of space, aiming to imbue each home with enriching experiences. This comprehensive volume delves into their most exceptional projects, themed around joy, color, character, spirit, and alchemy, offering invaluable insights into their creative process. With 250 stunning color illustrations, readers are treated to a visual feast, accompanied by detailed paint names, fabric selections, and key takeaways, making it an indispensable resource for design enthusiasts and professionals alike. www.thamesandhudsonusa.com

Copacabana Palace – Where Rio Starts By Francisca Matteoli (Vendome) unveils the captivating saga of the iconic “Copa,” tracing its evolution from its illustrious inception almost a century ago to its contemporary status as a stylish landmark. Themed chapters and breathtaking photography offer a vivid portrayal of the hotel’s integral role in the vibrant tapestry of Rio de Janeiro life over the past century and showcase a plethora of captivating events and anecdotes, complemented by specially commissioned photography from Tuca Reinés, Gleeson Paulino, and Pia Riverola. Beyond being a tribute to the hotel, the book serves as a love letter to the city itself, capturing its natural beauty, its people, and its legendary allure with stunning visual allure. www.vendomepress.com

Kering: Of Granite and Dreams By Tristan Gaston-Breton (Flammarion) a visually thrilling testament to the evolution of the Kering group from its humble origins as a timber trading firm to its current status as a global luxury powerhouse. This richly illustrated volume delves into the company’s remarkable trajectory, from its roots on the rugged coast of Brittany to the opulent headquarters that now symbolize its success. With contributions from a diverse array of luminaries spanning fashion, business, entertainment, and activism, including Jean-Michel Darrois, Mercedes Erra, and Jane Fonda, among others, the book offers a multifaceted perspective on Kering’s impact. Overflowing with captivating photographs and archival treasures, this volume serves as a captivating chronicle of Kering’s ascent to prominence, capturing the essence of its enduring legacy and visionary leadership. www.rizzoliusa.com

The Tom Scheerer Compendium By Tom Scheerer et al (Vendome) a lavish two-volume gift set showcasing the impeccable design ethos of the esteemed decorator. Within its luxurious slipcase, readers will discover a treasure trove of inspiration in ‘Tom Scheerer Decorates’ and ‘Tom Scheerer: More Decorating,’ celebrating Scheerer’s signature style of ‘Relaxed Modernism.’ For over three decades, Scheerer has left his indelible mark on a diverse array of spaces, from urban apartments to countryside retreats and tropical escapes. Through dozens of meticulously curated projects, this compendium unveils Scheerer’s unmatched blend of intelligence, proportion, and profound understanding of design history, illuminating the essence of his seemingly effortless yet profoundly impactful work. www.vendomepress.com

Why We Photograph Animals By Huw Lewis-Jones (Thames & Hudson) a compelling exploration that ignites curiosity and prompts reflection on our past and present interactions with the animal kingdom. This mesmerizing book, containing 300 vibrant, color illustrations, serves as a catalyst for reconsidering our perceptions and utilization of animals, urging us to envision new paradigms for our future relationships with nonhuman species. Featuring the masterful work of over one hundred photographers, complemented by thematic essays providing rich historical context, interviews with contemporary visionaries, and stunning visual collections spanning the evolution of animal photography, this volume transcends mere documentation to evoke profound contemplation. www.thamesandhudsonusa.com

Inside Yucatán: Hidden Mérida and Beyond By Susana Ordovás et al (Vendome) This evocative volume peels back the layers of time to reveal the faded grandeur of neglected and restored homes, serving as a poignant ode to the fusion of ancient traditions with contemporary life. At the heart of the narrative lies the turn-of-the-century splendor of Mérida, once home to more millionaires than any other city globally, its architectural gems nestled amidst lush tropical landscapes. Through Taroni’s captivating lens, readers are transported to over 30 unseen residences across the peninsula, from the vibrant streets of Izamal to the historic charm of Valladolid, where decadence and beauty converge in a mesmerizing tapestry of architectural styles spanning Renaissance to Moorish. www.vendomepress.com

Rowing Blazers: Revised and Expanded Edition By Jack Carlson (Vendome) Born in the boathouses of Britain, the iconic blazer has become synonymous with American style, and this glorious volume delves deep into its origins and evolution. Renowned designer and former US national team oarsman Jack Carlson offers readers an insider’s guide to the intricately adorned blazers, alongside captivating tales of historic clubs, prestigious races, and the elite athletes who don them. With this revised edition, Carlson introduces readers to an additional 40 clubs, including the University of Tokyo, the Shanghai Rowing Club, and Row New York, a pioneering nonprofit organization. From the hallowed halls of academia to the historic waterways of Chicago, this expanded edition celebrates the rich diversity and enduring allure of rowing culture worldwide. www.vendomepress.com

Homer and His Iliad By Robin Lane Fox (Basic Books) where the clash of heroes and gods unfolds amidst the backdrop of the Trojan War. Robin Lane Fox delves deep into the origins and enduring significance of this monumental poem, drawing on a lifelong passion to unravel its mysteries. Well-researched and highly accessible, this book offers a captivating exploration of one of the greatest works of literature in human history. City of Light, City of Shadows – Paris In The Belle Epoque By Mike Rapport (Basic Books) is captivating journey through the glittering yet tumultuous era of the Eiffel Tower and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Delving beyond the surface of glamour, this book astutely unveils a city marked by social unrest, poverty, and political extremism, where clashes over identity and belonging simmered beneath the veneer of sophistication. Correspondence 1927–1987 By Joseph Campbell (New World Library) Presented in a handsome hardcover edition, the book showcases a curated selection of letters that span decades of Campbell’s life and work. Within these pages, readers will discover not only the fascinating exchanges between Campbell and other artists, seekers, filmmakers, novelists, and scholars, but also the breadth of topics covered, from mythology and philosophy to personal reflections and cultural observations. It’s a unique window into Campbell’s intellectual evolution and the impact of his ideas on a wide range of disciplines. Goddesses – Mysteries of the Feminine Divine By Joseph Campbell (New World Library) Another integral volume in his esteemed Collected Works presented in a handsome hardcover edition. Although Campbell never penned a dedicated book on goddesses, this collection unveils a treasure trove of his insights, drawn from over twenty lectures and workshops conducted between 1972 and 1986. For the first time, readers can explore Campbell’s exploration of goddess figures, symbols, and themes, tracing their transcultural evolution from the singular Great Goddess of Neolithic Old Europe to the diverse pantheon of goddesses that emerged in the Renaissance.