An extremely rare, richly carved wide oak panel by Arthur Simpson of Kendal, and unusually, fully signed in the wood (incised) by him to one end, AW Simpson as well as the place, Kendal, Eng. to the other end; c1890s. A superb example of the quality of his carving at its best; with acorns and other floral and leaf detail, all very much in the manner of William Morris. Possibly a commisioned or exhibition piece.
He designed and carved a similar panel which he presented to HRH Princess Louise, Marchioness of Lorne, when she opened the Arts & Crafts Exhibition in Kendal in 1891 (see Fig. 120 The Simpsons of Kendal; Craftsmen in Wood 1885-1952 by Eleanor Davidson). On he designed and carved in pine for a demonstration at Rawdon School in 1913 is now held and exhibited at the Museum of Lakeland Life in Kendal
NB: This is a unique & special stand alone work of art; NOT a panel taken out of a piece of furniture.
Examples of his carving/work are in Blackwell, the famous Arts & Crafts house in the Lake District designed by MH Baiilie Scott. And of course Arthur Simpson was also very highly regarded by the British architect CFA Voysey (also a personal friend), who commissioned Simpson to make pieces to his designs.
h: 14.25” w: 50.5”
