Parchment

In planning a comfortable space, good decorators know that the key to "eye appeal" is a rich and tasteful mix of patterns, textures and finishes. One trend we have noticed becoming more prevalent lately is the use of Parchment or Vellum as a finish. We at Mecox offer a terrific array of genuine and faux Parchment and Vellum items including coffee tables, desks, side tables, objets and yes, even books, where it all started!



Parchment is a thin material made from calfskin, sheepskin or goatskin, often split. Its most common use was as a material for writing on, for documents, notes, or the pages of a book. It is distinct from leather in that parchment is limed but not tanned; therefore, it is very reactive to changes in realtive humidity and is not waterproof. The finer qualities of parchment are called vellum. Vellum refers to Parchment made from calfskin (although goatskin can be as fine in quality). Orginally Parchment was invented under the patronage of Eumenes of Pergamon, as a substitute for papyrus, which was temporarily not being exported from Alexandria, its only source. In fact, the English word "parchment" derives from the name of the city where it was invented, Pergamon.

What all that really means to us today, is that Parchment or Vellum has a wonderously rich history of use. Parchment and Vellum have transitioned into a sumptious material option for furniture, and with it's beautiful tone and coloration, and exceptional touch, it's a must-have for any room of note. Used to cover a side table perhaps, Parchment's creamy color is the perfect accent piece to make a sophisticated Manhattan drawing room harmonious, or make a Malibu beach house cozy as can be.



Miko Lacquered Parchment Nightstand

Mecox Los Angeles has recently received a shipment of stunning parchment pieces-dressers and side tables-all of which can be ordered in a multitude of colors and finishes (matte or gloss). If you're in the LA area please stop by and let us show you how luxurious Parchment can be.

Here is a small sampling of some of the many Parchment or Vellum pieces we carry:



Parchment Italiano Side Table

Bamboo and Parchment Coffee Table

Isis Lacquered Parchment Desk

Set of Three Nesting Tables

Small Italian Simple Parchment Chest