Shopper’s Diary: Natural History in Oxford

A new entry to the online retail scene: Natural History in Oxford, launched in summer 2010. Founded by Sarah Lidwell-Durnin, who describes herself as “an Irish girl living in Oxford (via Marrakesh and Paris), who left a Ph.D. in 15th-century poetry to pursue her passion for combining the whimsical with the decadently practical.” There’s a lot to like about her first round of offerings; starting with her line of accessories imprinted with original illustrations by famed 18th-century Irish naturalist and marine biologist John Ellis.

Above: The Blue Coral Linen Wall Hanging is printed on Irish linen and measures 114 by 114 cm; £250.

Above L to R: Strange and Scintillating Seaweed (Gelidum) and Strange and Scintillating Seaweed (Fucus). Both pillows measure 43 by 43 cm and are printed on Irish linen in Scotland; £80 each.

Above: Red Coral Wall Hanging; 114 by 114 cm; £250.