Arts and Craft Box designed by Beatrice Carpenter
Kiplin Hall and Gardens, North Yorkshire
This decorative Arts and Crafts casket, dating from the end of the 19th century, is a fine example of the craftsmanship fostered by Beatrice Carpenter. Made from rich rosewood and walnut, this hinged box features a beautifully moulded lid above intricately designed marquetry panels. The panels depict a pastoral scene with a shepherd and his flock, elegantly overlaid with fretwork trees, showcasing the intricate woodworking skills.
Designed by Beatrice Carpenter, the casket was crafted by local men attending her carpentry class as part of the Home Arts and Industries Association (HAIA). A workshop, held in Bolton-on-Swale, was part of Carpenter’s efforts to revive traditional crafts, an initiative inspired by the ideals of John Ruskin and William Morris.
The casket was highlighted in the July 1899 issue of The Studio magazine, reflecting its significance in the Arts and Crafts movement. Beatrice and her husband, Admiral Walter Carpenter, adorned their home with Arts and Crafts decorations and furnishings, many of which were created by local artisans under Beatrice Carpenter’s guidance.
Click on the photo to enlarge it.
Part of a wider movement
Carpenter’s activities were part of a wider movement among upper and middle class women to educate workers. They aimed to revive crafts including wood carving, metalwork and leatherwork, providing fulfilling and practical leisure activities and improving tastes. These women often organised and taught Saturday and evening classes in villages, towns and cities.
Activities coming soon
Talking Points
Look closely at the design. What features suggest that this was a complex design?
The shepherd and sheep are also shown upside down on the casket. Why do you think this is?
If you owned this casket, would you use it for storing things, or would you keep it for decoration?
During the Arts and Crafts movement, objects that were both functional and beautiful were greatly valued. Do you own any objects that have a clear function but that you think have also been designed to look attractive too? Do you think this is important?
Do you think the men who attended Beatrice Carpenter’s session appreciated her support? Why?
Why do you think the design continues around the sides of the box?
Nowadays, as in Carpenter’s time, the majority of the object we buy have been mass-produced. Why do you think it might be important to have unique, hand-made objects? Why don’t we buy more of them?
The image of a shepherd and his flock is sometimes seen as a religious symbol, because Jesus called himself ‘The Good Shepherd’ in the Gospel of John. Do you think the box could refer to that story? What else could the decorative image suggest to you? Do you like it?
Take It Further
Hotseat
Interview a student in role as one of the people who attended Carpenter’s classes. What attracted them to the class? What do they think of Beatrice Carpenter? How do they intend to use their new skills?
Hands on History
Discover more about Kiplin Hall and Gardens, or pay them a visit.
Museum Location
Associated Objects
