Edward Barnsley Furniture
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.
1910s English Arts and Crafts Vintage Edward Barnsley Furniture
Oak
1950s English Arts and Crafts Vintage Edward Barnsley Furniture
Oak
1920s English Arts and Crafts Vintage Edward Barnsley Furniture
Walnut
1950s English Arts and Crafts Vintage Edward Barnsley Furniture
Walnut
1950s English Arts and Crafts Vintage Edward Barnsley Furniture
Oak
Mid-20th Century English Arts and Crafts Edward Barnsley Furniture
Oak
1930s English Arts and Crafts Vintage Edward Barnsley Furniture
Ebony, Walnut, Bog Wood
21st Century and Contemporary American Industrial Edward Barnsley Furniture
Iron
21st Century and Contemporary American Industrial Edward Barnsley Furniture
Iron
Late 19th Century English Arts and Crafts Antique Edward Barnsley Furniture
Rush, Ash, Beech
Early 1900s American Arts and Crafts Antique Edward Barnsley Furniture
Leather, Oak
1980s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Barnsley Furniture
Marble, Aluminum
21st Century and Contemporary American Edward Barnsley Furniture
Iron
1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Barnsley Furniture
Upholstery, Wood
Early 1900s Dutch Arts and Crafts Antique Edward Barnsley Furniture
Oak
1890s Belgian Arts and Crafts Antique Edward Barnsley Furniture
Chestnut
Early 20th Century Unknown Arts and Crafts Edward Barnsley Furniture
Oak
Early 20th Century Italian Art Deco Edward Barnsley Furniture
Upholstery, Walnut
Early 20th Century Arts and Crafts Edward Barnsley Furniture
Brass
1910s English Arts and Crafts Vintage Edward Barnsley Furniture
Oak
1970s English Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Barnsley Furniture
Jacquard, Cherry
1930s English Edwardian Vintage Edward Barnsley Furniture
Upholstery, Oak
1930s English Regency Vintage Edward Barnsley Furniture
Velvet, Oak
Early 20th Century British Arts and Crafts Edward Barnsley Furniture
Sycamore, Holly
Early 20th Century British Arts and Crafts Edward Barnsley Furniture
Oak
Early 20th Century English Arts and Crafts Edward Barnsley Furniture
Walnut