Edward Barnsley Seating
Collectors the world over consider furniture maker Edward Barnsley one of the most influential figures in British design. Bringing his own touch to the local standard of crafting, Barnsley worked with rare hardwoods, such as rosewood and black bean, as well the staples of the Arts and Crafts style, like oak and walnut. His use of fine lines, delicate curves and detailed inlays set his work apart from that of his predecessors.
From Hampshire County, England, Barnsley was practically born to be a furniture maker. His father, Sydney, uncle Ernest and a family friend all practiced the craft and were strong influences on young Edward. At 10, he enrolled in Bedales, a progressive school focusing on practical skills and craftwork.
In 1920, after completing his studies, Barnsley returned to Hampshire and began employment at the workshop of local furniture maker and construction carpenter Geoffrey Lupton. In 1923, Lupton turned over his furniture workshop and client list to Barnsley. When his father died in 1926, Barnsley inherited his father's customers as well.
Barnsley employed numerous craftspeople and laborers — including the notable British furniture maker Alan Peters — increasing production immeasurably beyond that of his predecessors. The workshop created more than 7,000 individual works over the course of his leadership.
When electricity arrived to the shop in 1955, Barnsley was apprehensive about overutilizing mechanical means of production, believing the craftsperson's skill vital to making each piece a success. However, using machines to plane and sand the wood quickly became commonplace at the workshop, helping to boost production significantly.
Throughout his career, Barnsley often took the time to lecture at Loughborough College, passing on his wisdom and understanding of his craft to the next generation. He was also a founding member of the Crafts Council of England, and in 1945, received the title of Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE).
After Barnsley died in 1987, his widow and children gave substantial contributions to the workshop, helping to ensure its financial security for the future. Although Edward Barnsley is gone, the Edward Barnsley Workshop lives on — crafting outstanding furniture with the same level of perfection and vision as its namesake.
On 1stDibs, explore antique Edward Barnsley seating, case pieces and decorative objects.
1950s English Arts and Crafts Vintage Edward Barnsley Seating
Oak
1950s English Arts and Crafts Vintage Edward Barnsley Seating
Oak
1920s English Arts and Crafts Vintage Edward Barnsley Seating
Walnut
19th Century English Arts and Crafts Antique Edward Barnsley Seating
Metal
Mid-19th Century French Louis XIV Antique Edward Barnsley Seating
Walnut, Tapestry
21st Century and Contemporary American Industrial Edward Barnsley Seating
Iron
2010s Canadian Organic Modern Edward Barnsley Seating
Fabric, Maple, Walnut
1930s English Arts and Crafts Vintage Edward Barnsley Seating
Leather, Oak
19th Century Victorian Antique Edward Barnsley Seating
Walnut
1940s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Barnsley Seating
Mahogany
Mid-19th Century English Early Victorian Antique Edward Barnsley Seating
Ceramic, Tapestry, Walnut
1980s Georgian Vintage Edward Barnsley Seating
Walnut
Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Edward Barnsley Seating
Upholstery, Oak
1910s Edwardian Vintage Edward Barnsley Seating
Wood, Walnut
Early 20th Century American Arts and Crafts Edward Barnsley Seating
Upholstery, Rush, Oak
1970s English Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Barnsley Seating
Jacquard, Cherry
1930s English Edwardian Vintage Edward Barnsley Seating
Upholstery, Oak
1930s English Regency Vintage Edward Barnsley Seating
Velvet, Oak
