So what is Steampunk?

So you wanna see some of my new jewelry? I have just made some beautiful steampunk/neo-victoriam pendants and brooches.

So you ask what is steampunk?

 In a nutshell Steampunk is Victorian science fiction, a re-imagining of the 19th century, and the perfect blending of alternate history, romance and science fiction. A dream of a never once was time and place.

Steampunk is also Neo-Victorian, which is the amalgamation of Victorian aesthetic principles with modern sensibilities and technologies.

Where did it come from I hear you ask. Well it started way back when with 19^th century Scientific Romance novels by Jules Verne, Mark Twain, Mary Shelly and H.G Wells but didn’t get a name till April 1987 when sci fi author K.W.Jeter sent in this letter to Locus magazine;

Dear Locus,

Enclosed is a copy of my 1979 novel Morlock Night; I'd appreciate your being so good as to route it Faren Miller, as it's a prime piece of evidence in the great debate as to who in "the Powers/Blaylock/Jeter fantasy triumvirate" was writing in the "gonzo-historical manner" first. Though of course, I did find her review in the March Locus to be quite flattering.

Personally, I think Victorian fantasies are going to be the next big thing, as long as we can come up with a fitting collective term for Powers, Blaylock and myself. Something based on the appropriate technology of the era; like "steampunks", perhaps...

—K.W. Jeter

So what’s with the cogs and gear then? Well they are an easily recognized symbol of steampunk, an icon if you will. But the gear and cog on thier own does not a steampunk make.

Steampunk takes inspiration from the industrial and applies it to whatever culture it influences. If it is integral to the design and aesthetic of a piece it is Steampunk.

Steampunk is also heavily influenced by the general neo-vintage movement, which has been steadily progressing through mainstream fashion, film and aesthetics. In times of general world uncertainty and insecurity it is comfort to look towards the past and the rose tinted comfort of the good ol’ days.

Go look at AMUseceramics Etsy Store to see more lovelyness.

A.MUse