Sideboard by Edward William Godwin   British Arts & Crafts

Sideboard, c. 1867
Designed by Edward William Godwin (British, 1833-86)
Manufactured by William Watt, London, c. 1876
One of eight sideboards known to exist
Ebonized mahogany, pine, silver electroplated hardware
TD1989.137.1

This sideboard demonstrates the design reformers' rejection of the ornate, cluttered furnishings prevalent in the Victorian period. Deeply influenced by Japanese art, its style is characterized by a play of solids and voids, interlocking planes, and restrained ornament. The sideboard, originally created for Godwin's own use in 1867, was produced by the William Watt company in 1878 and sold through its catalog.


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