The Finer Details of Limbert: A Demonstration

by Kate Nixon

 

As American Arts and Crafts furniture became popular at the turn of the century, Grand Rapids, Michigan became a leading furniture capital of the world.  In Grand Rapids, Charles P. Limbert – after a few years of developing period reproduction chairs with business parter Philip Klingman – produced his own line of Dutch inspired Arts and Crafts furniture. In later years, as he decided to become a solo entrepreneur and start his own company, Limbert’s style became experimental, incorporating elements of the Art Nouveau era and the simple form of the emerging Arts and Crafts style. From his early works with exposed carriage-bolt construction and interior oak furniture known for the combination of Art Nouveau, English Medieval, Glasgow, Japanese, and Austrian succession styles to the influence of the Glasgow School, Viennese and the Prairie School style, Limbert’s furniture was a reflection of both eastern influences and the simplicity of its craftsmanship.  As his style developed, his furniture details would also progress. Inspired by Mackintosh but ready for another experimental change, Limbert developed his “Ebon-Oak” line of furniture with ebony inlays and copper accents.

The works of Limbert stand apart from other Arts and Crafts furniture designers for a number of reasons, Because Limbert was among the first of the furniture designers to have used an actual shopmark rather than a paper label, today, because there are fewer examples of a paper label, Limbert’s works are the perfect example of studying the finer details to identify furniture and why it’s so important to be able to recognize the style of a crafts firm rather than through a paper label. Collectors attendees the 35th National Arts and Crafts Shows in February of 2022 will easily be able to learn the details of Limbert furniture designs through special demonstrations throughout the weekend with David Van Epps of Northwoods Restoration.

 

“Limbert Furniture Designs:  From Ebon-Oak to Spade Cutouts and More”

by David Van Epps

Taft room, 8th floor Vanderbilt Wing

In these 20-minute sessions, attendees can expect to learn about the design elements of Limbert’s furniture that were unique among the Arts & Crafts masters of the period and were influenced by his travels in Europe.  Photos and actual samples will be used to illustrate the design features.

David Van Epps has been a collector and builder of Arts & Crafts style furniture for more than 50 years.  He has spent many hours researching the history, construction techniques, and design elements of the period, with special emphasis on his particular passion, the “Holland Dutch Arts & Crafts” furniture of Charles Limbert. There will be time for your questions and informal discussion at each session.

Friday, February 18th –  2:30pm AND 4:00pm
Saturday, February 19th – 1:30pm AND 4:00pm
Sunday, February 20th – 12:30pm AND 2:00pm

 

“The Art & Craft of Stained Glass”

by Dianne Lee

Taft room, 8th floor Vanderbilt Wing

In addition to studying the details on Limbert furniture, collectors can marvel at the beauty of stained glass in short 20 minute demonstrations. Dianne Lee of the Stained Glass Bungalow will return to the Grove Park Inn to demonstrate the beauty of stained glass in her demonstrations titled the “Art & Craft of Stained Glass.” From Frank Lloyd Wright windows and Tiffany lamp shades to Roycroft china cabinets and bungalow doors. Stained glass artist Dianne Lee, a former GPI exhibitor, will demonstrate design processes similar to what were used during the Arts and Crafts era, such as cutting and foiling using a copper foil project. The leaded glass method will also be covered. Dianne will share with you her experience in integrating both new and vintage stained glass into your home.  Be sure to take just 20 minutes out of your shopping time to sit in on one of Dianne’s sessions, as you will come away with an even greater appreciation for the art and craft of stained glass designs.

Friday, February 18th –  2:00pm AND 3:30pm
Saturday, February 19th – 2:00pm AND 3:30pm
Sunday, February 20th – 1:00pm AND 2:30pm

 

For more information, please visit arts-craftsconference.com.