Growing up on a cattle ranch once shared by Mexican revolutionaries, Jan Barboglio learned early to appreciate the fullness and richness of the culture surrounding her.
“We grew up roaming a ranch where children searched for ammunition, coins, mule shoes and metal artifacts from the days of Pancho Villa,” Barboglio told The New York Times. The memories of an isolated, primitive and rugged land still inspire her artistry today. The patina of many pieces in the Jan Barboglio collection brings to mind the surface of an old saddle. She mixes disparate common objects to blend them with other items to evoke a hacienda lifestyle and the elegance of the land where she grew up.
Her work is known for being warm, aesthetically handsome and primitive works of art. Even her luxury bathroom accessories have become collectible because of a high commitment to quality and a touch with is constantly sensuous.
Ever stop and think about who designed the luxury bathroom accessories you find in the indoor outhouses of wealthy friends or read about in Town & Country? Probably not — most people don’t. For Jan Barboglio, the anonymity has been a blessing.
Following decades of working with her sister, Christina, Jan decided she needed a change, and began sculpting accessories and upscale luxury bathroom accessories and furnishings for her own home. With a childhood spent in Mexico, she had fertile ground for inspiration. The rich history and romance of North-Central Mexico inspired her every design.
Her first designs were meant for her silver, bronze and iron candelabra. Altarware and crosses meant as house blessings were integrated, and her love of entertaining later resulted in her iron chargers and chafing dishes. Leather items and saddle stools filled her home, and each influence is apparent in her collection today.
Jan’s original designs paved the road to her current, and vast, home accessory line. The collection has flourished as it morphed into crosses and crowns, scrolls and roses, guardian angels and bleeding hearts. Now, the craft lady is known for linking the spiritual vibe of old Mexico to home decorating.
More recently, Barboglio expanded the collection to include glass accents as well as accents of wood and wax. Heavy bases fashioned of clear bottle glass fit nicely with the dining pieces, while tables in natural tones are notable for complimenting the iron found dominant in her early years. Gesso wings, hands and a cross among roses make up the balance of her collection, and her signature candles illuminate her designs.
Widely recognized for its stylish quality, her growing furniture collection makes her legendary to her fan base. Her attention to detail is popular with collectors of any age. She fashioned her collector base by following her rich history and storytelling skill — Milagro cards are included with each purchase. She is known and loved for her talent in turning everyday objects into magic items of love and patience.
The Jan Barboglio Collection is available at most Neiman Marcus stores and in other fine specialty stores.
