Description: Wonderful freestanding elm / burr elm open bookcase. The influence of the Neolithic stone dresser at Skara Brae on Orkney is strong but from a midcentury viewpoint I can see Charlotte Perriand in the configuration and asymmetry of the shelves.

Designer: Tim Stead (1952-2000)

Biography: Tim Stead was a British sculptor and furniture maker. His furniture has a wonderful organic, sculptural quality and is incredibly tactile. His work shares a deep understanding and an underlying philosophy to that of George Nakashima - ‘The soul and spirit of the tree, and the dedication of the woodworker to his or her craft’, and a belief that a tree that has lived a good life deserves a second life as a beautiful and considered piece of furniture. For Tim, furniture and sculpture are part of the same conversation, there is no distinction. Sculpture is furniture, furniture is sculpture.

Like George Nakashima, Tim Stead respected the natural properties of the wood. Rather than discarding the edges, cracks and knots, traditionally considered imperfect, he preserved and highlighted them turning these features into the focal point of each piece, allowing the inherent beauty of the wood to speak for itself.

Tim Stead’s home ‘The Steading’ in the Scottish Borders is a total work of art - a complete, harmonious interior, fully furnished. In some respects it is the fulfilment of an artistic vision and a devotion to a life of creative exploration. In 2020 the house, interior, adjacent sawmill and workshop was designated Grade A Listed status by Historic Environment Scotland. The house and archive are now managed by the Tim Stead Trust.

Date: 1990s

Dimensions: Width 150cm; Depth 31cm; Height 112cm.

Condition: Excellent original condition. Lovely rich colour to the elm. Wonderful free edge detailing. Small imperfections in the wood are filled with a cold cast bronze.