A small mahogany cabinet on integral stand by Jeremy Green, signed and dated 1979, with pear wood panels and chequer line inlays.
Provenance: Private Collection, Cotswolds, UK.
Jeremy Green, born 1951 the year of The Festival of Britain, grew up in Chipping Campden in the Cotswolds. Despite his surroundings and the strong traditions of cabinet making in the area, it wasn’t until he studied at the University of Liverpool that he fell in love with the Arts & Crafts movement through his reading in the university library. He went on to gain an honours degree in Archaeology, Ancient History and Egyptology. On his return to the Cotswolds, he joined Oliver Morel (1916-2003) in his Moreton-in-Marsh workshop as a trainee. He then set up a workshop at his parents house Crofts Brook in Chipping Campden. He worked to private commissions, also selling at a gallery in Chipping Campden and local exhibitions. He became a well known figure in the town, and was the owner and editor of the Campden Bulletin for over 30 years.
An accompanying card label, penned in the cabinet maker’s hand, notes ‘Cabinet made from re-used West Indian mahogany from the nineteenth century. The panels are of pear wood from an old orchard in nearby Wickhamford and the inlay is of white sycamore and American walnut. The handles are of Brazilian Rosewood. £3000.’
The appeal of this cabinet to me is its early period, produced when Jeremy was 28 years old and in his first 5 years of independent cabinet making. Also its purity of form and design, taking inspiration from Morel, Gimson and the Barnsleys. I am particularly drawn to its story and the re-use of older and local timbers, which contrast and complement. The function of this cabinet appears to be bespoke and not obvious, but I view and appreciate the cabinet as a piece of sculpture. Please speak to your broker about its investment potential!
