Design Inspiration
Masterpieces of American Furniture:1620-1840. Lester Margon, A.I.D. Architectural book Publishing Company, 1965
Art, design, furniture and books have always been my passions. You can often find me at antique stores, in old barns full of rusty woodworking equipment and at library books sales. A few years ago, I happened onto a huge stack of furniture books at the Portsmouth Public Library’s annual book sale. I was glad that I drove my truck. Most of the books went straight on the shelves to be inspected one-at-a-time on cold, winter mornings. However, one went with me to my reading chair: Masterpieces of American Furniture, 1620-1840 by Lester Margon.
It’s a rough copy. The edges are frayed and the library book jacket is ripped, taped and ripped again. Inside, I discovered a goldmine for the furniture maker: elegant, measured drawings of some the best examples of American furniture from museum and special collections across the country. While the black and white photographic reproductions are a little muddy and the writing is a little stilted, the drawings, themselves, capture an insight to the fine design choices made by only the best of craftsman. In curating this collection, Mr Margon also distinguishes himself as a designer with a keen eye. I was hooked.
Masterpieces has been a frequent companion since my discovery. It’s my go-to reference anytime I have a question about a particular construction detail. After all, it’s a little like seeing into the builders mind. I’m not sure why it only occurred to me year later to research Mr Margon. You can imagine my excitement when I discovered 4 more collections: Masterpieces of European Furniture 1300-1840; World Furniture, Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow; Construction of American Furniture Treasures and More American Furniture, 1620-1840. Yes, please, I’ll take them all.
They have not disappointed, only sparked an idea. I asked myself, “how can I respond to these drawings?” I’ve been a carpenter and furniture maker, as well as an artist and designer for more than 20 years. I’ve read deeply about furniture for much of that time but only recently discovered Lester Margon’s work. I’m not sure how much exposure these books have now. How could shine a light on his work and these amazing works? Like a whisper in the middle of the night, a single word began to creep into my mind: build.
In this spirit, I launched 3 Crows, my woodworking shop. I am building and plan to build as many of these works of art as possible. I’ll keep the galleries on this site as well as social media up-to-date with progress posts, photos and more. You can also find some of my past, current and future projects, together with a shop where you can buy, order or just be inspired to build something yourself.