Foot Stool - Mahogany with Horse Hair Covering c. 1939

Magnus S. Fossum made this foot stool from mahogany with horse hair covering. It's hard to put a date on it, but looking at this piece I see an artist who isn't afraid to embrace tradition. The deep green seat cushion contrasts against the rich, reddish-brown mahogany, creating a visual harmony that's both comforting and intriguing. What strikes me most is the tactile quality of the materials. The smooth, polished wood invites you to run your hand along its curves, while the textured horse hair hints at a firm, yet yielding support. Looking closer at the legs, I see how the artist has carefully shaped the wood into elegant scrolls, adding a touch of whimsy to an otherwise functional object. The way the light catches the surface reveals subtle variations in tone, suggesting the hand of the maker at work. The stool reminds me a little of the work of my friend, Philip Guston, who similarly found unexpected beauty in everyday objects. Like Guston, Fossum embraces the inherent qualities of his materials, allowing them to speak for themselves. Ultimately, this foot stool is more than just a place to rest your feet. It's a testament to the enduring power of craftsmanship and the beauty that can be found in the simplest of things.