Absolute POP Philly Art Blocks

Great gift idea for anyone who likes Philadelphia: attractive 10"x10" art blocks for just $39 from Absolute POP. The store at 141 South 13th Street has artistic photos and painting prints of classic and unusual Philadelphia scenes. They are giclee prints on thick wooden blocks treated to withstand heat and humidity.

Absolute POP and its sister store Absolute Abstract are good places to find reasonably priced original and replicated artwork. Some of the selection border on gaudy (they also serve corporate offices), but many items are unique and beautiful. Their Absolute Philadelphia series of images is also available in other sizes and on canvas.

Mitchell & Ness throwback jerseys

Stopped in the Mitchell & Ness store at 13th and Chestnut today to oggle their collection of throwback Phillies jerseys. Mitchell & Ness has been a sporting goods company since 1904, when they began selling wooden tennis racquets and golf clubs. By the 1920s they were manufacturing baseball jerseys of local teams and at one point supplied official uniforms for the Eagles, Phillies, and the since-departed Philadelphia Athletics. In the late 1980s, with business struggling, the company decided to focus its efforts into making vintage uniforms, first in baseball and then in other sports.

The authentically made vintage uniforms can be a little pricey, running $200-$300, but you can find throwback jackets, caps, and T-shirts for $50 or less.

Here are some of my favorites:
Philadelphia Phillies Battery Jacket, $60


Philadelphia Athletics 1927 Road Jersey (featuring the white elephant!), $225


1945 Philadelphia Phillies "4 Jimmy Foxx" jersey (with Blue Jay!), $250

Philadelphia LOVE Necklace

A shining tribute to Robert Indiana's famous design and the sentiment it represents. This sterling silver piece is inspired by the famous LOVE statue in JFK Plaza (LOVE Park) in central Philadelphia. Made on Jewelers' Row, this is a slice of Philly that will even appeal to someone who is yet to visit the city.

Sterling Silver, 16" or 18" chain
On sale at Etsy.com. $75.