The Orange Oracle

Don't burn your eyes looking at this blazing wowzer in sensationally orange Bakelite. Two things about this button blow my mind: First of all, it's the brightest orange (Bakelite) button I've ever seen. Secondly, the carved design is a strange blend of art deco florals and a cryptic motif that alludes to a suspicious talisman. A true enigma of fiery orange Bakelite and a brilliantly styled button to boot, this rare keepsake harks back to the late 1920's / early 1930's.

On a totally separate note, here's a painting by Tamara de Lempicka, titled Marquis d'Afflitto (1926). A raffish dude in a blue suit, there's a glint of disrepute in the pose of this arcane fop. Look at that savage glare, sharp-cornered shoulder and the wicked pastiness of his left duke. Somehow, the orange button strikes me as being just as devious.  Lounging in an art deco jungle, the fellow exudes a surefire ominous vibe. If looks could kill...

-Sherbert McGee