Gimson and the Barnsleys

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"Wonderful furniture of a commonplace kind" After training as architects and coming under the influence of William Morris and the Arts and Crafts Movement, Gimson and the Barnsleys gradually became involved with furniture design and the revival of traditional crafts. This turning point in their careers required a move to the countryside to achieve its full expression, and their arrival in the Cotswolds in 1893 led to a growing absorption of local traditions and materials in their work. Although for most of their careers the three men worked as separate individuals, they were able to develop a unique and distinctive style of furniture while continuing to practice as architects. The aims of the Arts and Crafts Movement have been written about at length by many of its members. Gimson and the Barnsleys left no written testament, yet their lives were enriched by their love of nature and of rural pursuits. They were fulfilled by the enjoyment derived from their work, with its emphasis on handwork, quality, and simple design, in the true spirit of the Movement. This fascinating account of their careers traces the development of their work and its influence on the twentieth century from their successors, Peter Waals, Edward Barnsley, and Gordon Russell, to the craftsmen and furniture designers of today. Fair condition. Wear and bending on the front cover. Title page and table of contents page have detached. 2 copies available Show more