Lot 174
ATTRIBUTED TO JOHN MOYR SMITH (1839-1912)
AESTHETIC MOVEMENT OCCASIONAL TABLE, CIRCA 1880
Auction: Design Since 1860 Day One | Wed 14th October | Lots 1 to 245
Description
ebonised, gilt and polychrome painted wood, stamped 1195
Dimensions
56cm diameter, 63cm high
Provenance
Paul Shutler
Private Collection
Footnote
Moyr Smith’s furniture designs are characterised by their architectural forms, geometric ornament and carefully considered surface decoration. He drew on a range of historical and contemporary sources, including medieval and classical ornament and the emerging interest in Japanese design. Ebonised wood, painted decoration, incised detail and inlay feature frequently in his work, creating pieces that are decorative without being excessively elaborate. His designs sit comfortably within the broader aesthetic of late Victorian furniture, where architecture, furniture and the decorative arts were increasingly considered as part of a unified interior. The combination of strong structure and controlled ornament gives his furniture a distinctive character, while reflecting the varied influences of the period.