Peace corps

The peace sign turned 50 this year, but the golden anniversary is only one explanation behind the symbol’s current proliferation in home decor. The sign, created by Gerald Holtom for the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament in Britain, is not so much retro rehash as it is a contemporary statement about the war in Iraq -- and a reflection of designers’ anticipation of last month’s presidential election. Henry Road textile designer Paula Smail says her peace pillows sold out at a recent gift show. “I’ve had them for years,” she says, “but all of a sudden they are hugely popular.” Here we present some of the home furnishings to invoke Holtom’s emblem. Check out more examples in the expanded photo gallery at latimes.com/home.

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Coming Sunday

The peace sign pops up in the world of fashion too. Look for the story in the Image section.