Coasters
What are they and what are coasters used for? This is an article about my favourite utilitarian and decorative object.
A coaster is a small mat or disc placed under a hot or cold drink to protect the table surface from condensation or heat. They are made out of various durable and absorbent materials,
The first coasters appeared in the 19th century taverns of Central Europe; they were fabric pieces placed on top of beer glasses, as a way for drinkers to protect their precious drink from annoying insects and other debris. They equally appeared in upper class interiors; they were made of silver and were designed for decanters or wine bottles so that they could be slid (or "coasted") around the dinner table after the servants had retired.
The first beer mat made of carton was introduced in 1880 by the german printing company Friedrich Horn. Robert Sputh (Dresden, 1892) manufactured and patented the first coaster made of wood pulp. However, coasters were widely used thanks to the early marketers and graphic designers, who used the beer mats as a canvas for the brewery's logos and slogans, presented directly to the targeted consumers in the pubs and bars.
Fun fact: Did you know that some beer coasters are collectible items?
The largest collection has been listed in the “Guinness book of records”, comprising 152,860 different coasters from 192 countries and belongs to the Austrian Leo Pisker.
The practice - or hobby - of collecting coasters is called tegestology.
Nowadays, coasters can be found everywhere, they are among the most common gift or memorabilia items, presented to the supermarket consumer, as well as the museum visitor. Contemporary dining and home decor collections include artistic signature coasters, as statement pieces of fine aesthetics and good taste; meanwhile, their users communicate their good manners and meticulous moves during a social event. Artistic coasters are an instant and easy style upgrade for your table top, as well as a thoughtful and versatile gift idea.
PAINT NOOK's collection comprises coasters made of travertine, hand-printed with hand-carved patterns, using waterproof and lightfast ink. Travertine is a material with a prominent organic texture, which contributes to the design and no two coasters are exactly alike. Our designs are classic and timeless and can be incorporated in any decoration style.
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