SPEAKING IS GOLD       
Scientists agree that verbal interaction makes sense from both an evolutionary and a social perspective. But dialogue with pets? It’s often met with a wry smile. And ever since Hamlet, talking to oneself has been seen as a sign of madness – or at the very least, of being detached from reality. Yet all three forms of communication have their place. After all, even headstrong cats can associate objects with words, recognise their own names and tell whether they or another animal are being addressed. Dogs with a flair for language are even capable of understanding 200 different words. So, when you’re relaxing at the weekend, feel free to chat to your cats with their floppy ears, and to your purring and meowing four-legged friends. Perhaps it’s also time for an inner monologue. After all, talking to yourself has a distinctly structuring and cathartic quality. And if family or friends are present: questions are the most powerful tool for successful communication; they act like submarines, swiftly taking us from the surface to deeper realms. In any case, Ted Muehling’s mocha cup would be a silent witness, an impartial companion: its clean lines are pleasing to the eye, its flawless glaze shines like a compliment, and its saucer speaks of openness. Of course, you can also spin fantastic tales whilst holding the designer’s other creations.​

IN PRIVATE
There are settings that lend themselves to deep conversations: motorways, walks across vast fields, kitchens and, above all, benches. When people walk side by side, their eyes fixed on nothing in particular or on a shared destination, they open up more easily. Our Majolica bench would be an ideal spot for philosophical musings and intimate confessions, for making plans and solving problems. The base is made of hot-dip galvanised, powder-coated steel, whilst the seat is covered with handcrafted Majolica tiles, which are fired at over 1,000 degrees and are frost-resistant. The bench can remain outside the house even during the winter months and provides a setting for deep conversations all year round, whether with a hot chocolate or ice-cold champagne in hand. Details? It’s best to discuss these in person. Perhaps on the majolica bench at our Nymphenburg Campus or via bespoke@nymphenburg.com. ​