At this point my rather macabre love of skeletons and skulls is pretty well documented but, perhaps unsurprisingly, has manifested itself more in the wearable variety than as household objects. Until, that is, I saw these pieces from Royal Tichelaar Makkum...the oldest company in the Netherlands...and one which, rather beautifully, combines historical techniques with modern design.

The candleholder centerpiece and Innocence plate would be ideal for a Miss Havisham inspired wedding (though I'm pretty sure that's not a popular theme for your average blushing bride) or to celebrate a birthday you would rather forget (probably the more popular option)...or just, in the case of the plate, as a place to rest your finger sandwiches...