The constraints of the internet often lend A&D Research in the venue a soundless aspect. With the notable exception of the hip, atmospheric, and ambient grooves of the background music of certain sites, the medium is mostly visual, leaving me to occasionally guess or at least reason out the pronunciations of certain products. Take the Sade Collection of bathroom faucets by manufacturer Graff.

Sade Collection, G1815. Manufactured by Graff.

Free Standing Faucet for Washbasins and Tubs

The principal historical intimation therein is the Marquis de Sade, often ascribed the dubious distinction of having founded sado-masochistic sexuality. Since I was schooled in the pop culture of the 80s, however, for me, the word conjures up the silky smooth tones of British pop star Sade, known for her 80s hit “Smooth Operator.” I’m going to take the leap, then, and attribute the name’s meaning to the latter, for each of the faucets in the Sade Collection is lithe and sinuous—beautiful for their long lines, slowly arcing curves, and resplendent metallic sheen.

Sade Collection, G1815. Manufactured by Graff.

Sade Collection, G1810. Manufactured by Graff.

Sade Collection, G1851. Manufactured by Graff.

The most distinctive feature about the Sade Faucets is the synergy between the sculptural and the geometric. Graff achieves this dual nature by flattening the faucets into a very narrow rectangular shape and maintaining this dimension from tip to top. The effect is especially pronounced in the Sade models G-1815, G-1852, and G-1853, each of which perfect a long, graceful extension from the floor to the tub or basin—very like the elegant expanse of a giraffe’s neck, or the lengthy torso of a corseted African princess.

While the last image might begin to jibe with the proclivities of the historical de Sade, the more I think on it, the more convinced I become that Graff had the Nigerian-born Sade in mind when they named the line, such does the silhouette resemble common body types in the African continent. Though Graff stops short of saying as much, copy for the collection certainly reminds one of vocalist Sade’s long lithe lines and lyrical allure: “featuring a fluid profile that demands attention, the new Sade Collection elevates bathing to new heights, moving water as nature intended… this stunningly crafted faucet re-defines bathroom elegance and adds the finishing touch to even the most decadent decors.”