Last Wednesday, 30th May I took part in an extravagant urban safari of sorts. Gieves and Hawkes flagship store on Savile Row hosted ‘The call of the Wild’, an evening showcasing the talents of some of London’s finest craftsmen and women.

I was there demonstrating my engraving work, but I did manage to capture one or two photographic trophies of the night. So this post is less about my work and more of a boast about the excellent company I keep.

And why not, it’s a reflection of my work values: upholding traditional craftsmanship and celebrating all the good things today’s artisans have to offer.

In-between sips of Balvenie’s finest Malt and nibbling Hansen & Lydersen’s  exquisite smoked Salmon I was first drawn to admire Carréducker’s winkers,

and these phenomenal tattooed boots (just one more whisky and I would have commissioned a pair for myself)

For those drawn to country pursuits Holland and Holland showcased their fine rifles and shotguns whilst Farlows had a man on hand demonstrating the art of tying flies: rainbow coloured feathery jewels in their own right.

Bentleys showcase of antiques inspired in me a chronic bout of fantasy nostalgia: a sort of Alice in Wonderland world in which I wear silk top hats and live in a gigantic vintage Louis Vuitton trunk.

The tailors of Savile Row – a fine looking bunch, suited and booted – almost distracted me from further exploring the sartorial splendours of Gieves & Hawkes flagship store, but I did manage to escape their charms to examine the fine fabrics, once again indulging my imagination to dream up a gold pinstriped ballgown complete with military inspired embroidery

Various creatures could be spotted keeping a beady eye over the proceedings of the evening.

and One of Bill Amberg‘s damascene knives would have come in handy if the enormous Polar Bear guarding the entrance to the shop had suddenly come to life.

Thankfully the guests wandered out into the cool night air of their own accord, rather than being chased by a wily beast!