"Arts & Crafts" has come to be a name for a style of decorative arts,
but just try to pin it down. It's a huge challenge, because it
encompasses such a broad variety of work. Early pieces, such as some of
those by William Morris, draw from more ornate Victorian artifacts.
Contrast these with the simpler, medieval-inspired work of Morris, the
austere elegance of chairs and built-in cabinetry by Voysey, or
furniture produced by the Barnsleys--never mind the clear Art Nouveau
influences in much of Mackintosh's work. It quickly becomes clear just
how broad this period in design history really is.
English Arts & Crafts Furniture explores the Arts & Crafts movement
with a unique perspective on furniture designs inspired by English Arts
& Crafts designers. Through examination of details and techniques as
well as projects, you'll learn what sets English Arts & Crafts apart and
gain a deeper understanding of the overall Arts & Crafts movement and
its influences. In this book you'll find:
- Insight into the history and culture surrounding the Arts & Crafts
movement
- An examination of influences that set English Arts & Crafts designers
including William Morris, Charles Francis Annesley Voysey, Ernest
Gimson, Ernest and Sidney Barnsley, and Charles Robert Ashbee apart from
their American counterparts
- 3 complete furniture projects that illustrate traits representative of
English Arts & Crafts: a Voysey chair, a hayrake table designed by
Ernest Gimson and a sideboard design from the Harris Lebus company,
England's largest furniture maker at the time
Equal parts design survey and project book, English Arts & Crafts
Furniture is a must-read for any serious fan of Arts & Crafts
furniture.
