Settle c. 1800 - 1885

Editor: Here we have "Settle," dating around 1880, crafted by Philip Webb and currently residing at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. Looking at it, I’m immediately struck by the craftsmanship – the rich wood, the delicate carving. What stories do you think this piece is trying to tell, what do you see in this beautiful Settle? Curator: It whispers of a simpler time, doesn't it? Look at how the floral patterns dance across the panels – they're not just decoration; they're a rebellion. The Arts and Crafts movement was a heartfelt 'no' to industrialization. People craved handcrafted beauty, things made with care and intention, not churned out by machines. Imagine sinking into this after a long day, surrounded by the warmth of wood and the embrace of art. Does it make you think about nature? Editor: It does! The flowers, the rising sun motif… It's all very comforting and almost romantic. But where does function come in? Is it simply meant to be looked at? Curator: A vital question! This isn’t just furniture; it’s a statement. It elevates the everyday. Imagine a family gathering around it, sharing stories, and the object being witness to a life lived. To be truthful it could just be used to wait! Waiting and living go hand in hand after all. Editor: I guess I hadn’t considered it as a symbol, more like just somewhere to put my feet up, this is such a refreshing point of view, I hadn’t thought of it like that at all! Curator: Every object holds stories and intent, doesn't it? Editor: Absolutely. It's about understanding that every object carries its weight and that even somewhere like a waiting room can show stories from our history. Thanks for enlightening me!