Luzern - Shop Windows

The shop windows at Luzern offered a glimpse into the artistic side of her citizens. Thankfully there were a lot less Swiss army knives on display, their varieties were truly bewildering.  At the advent of Valentine's Day, a cheeky display of a man's torso in bright red briefs defied the wintry weather and no doubt was dressed to kill.  Perhaps it was inspired by David Beckham's recent campaign for H&M, or perhaps there is a flamboyant side of the Swiss that is not apparent in the sombre tones of grey and camel that seem to dominate the female apparel.

A great number of the shops were displaying eye-catching masks.  Some looked hideous and grotesque, some funny and humorous.  These heralded the upcoming Luzern Carnival (Lozarner Fasnach) that takes place in mid February.  Who would have thought that these masks would grace the shop windows of the most expensive jewellers?   






This frog, sucking a cigar and donning a Napoleon hat, was perched above some extravagantly expensive earrings, perhaps acting as a temporary distraction from the price tag.

But spring is not too far away.  At the Hermes shop, a range of bright spring colours announced the cheerful news that the thaw is just around the corner. The gorgeous orange reminded me of Seville, her streets lined with orange trees.  The green hand is a touch mischievous, inviting the on-looker to ponder the  meaning.  Why would a green hand, a novice, be attracted to such a luxury item?  

By far a much better place to shelter from the winter chill is this cafe which was open on a Sunday.  It sold a varieties of chocolates, cakes and bread, and the shoppers could consume the purchases on the premise and read the newspapers on offer.  Such a civilised way of spending a Sunday afternoon. Interestingly, there was no wi fi and therefore it attracted a more mature clientèle than those young guns at Starbucks.