What Is Steampunk & How Can You Express Yourself With It?Unique Chic Antiques

Steampunk For Beginners

Posted on August 9, 2012 by admin in steampunk jewelry { Edit }

What is Steampunk?

This is a good question that is hard to answer.

To me, Steampunk has always been first and foremost a literary genre, or least a sub-genre of science fiction and fantasy that includes social or technological aspects of the 19th century (the steam) usually with some deconstruction of, re-imagining of, or rebellion against parts of it (the punk). 

 

Unfortunately, it is a poorly defined subgenre, with plenty of disagreement about what is and is not included. 

 

For example, there are many stories written that may take place in the Victorian era but will have advanced machines based on the 19th century (e.g. The Difference Engine by William Gibson and Bruce Sterling).  Will also include the supernatural as well (e.g. The Parasol Protectorate by Gail Carriger) 

 

Includes the supernatural and fore-go the technology (e.g. The Anubis Gates by Tim Powers, one of the works that inspired the term ‘steampunk’): or it can take place in an another world altogether, but featuring Victorian-like technology (e.g. Mainspring by Jay Lake). You will be able to find these stories on Steampunk.com

 

It’s sort of Victorian-industrial, but with more whimsy and fewer orphans.  Caitlin Kittredge

 

To tell you where my curiosity for this genre came about is almost impossible to say.  In my antique shop I set up a small scenario of Steampunk accessories, including: a cute black corset on a manikin, a  derby hat with old clocks attached to it, gears from watches, even religious medallions. 

 

Next to that I have several pieces of jewelry made by my daughter in law, and a pair of leather pilot goggles.  I was surprised at the reaction of the customers. I ended up selling the hat and goggles and many pieces of the jewelry.

 

You don’t need to go all out to enjoy bits and pieces of the “Steampunk craze,”  however, try it, you might like it!

 

 

 

 

via uniquechicantique.com