The American Craftsman Showcase

1st Place | Gerard Hess, MI

Commissioned as an anniversary present, this Jewelry Armoire is of locally sourced Black Walnut and Red Oak. The Walnut applique on clamshell doors mimics the pattern of the client's wrought-iron bed. Chest contains 7 drawers as with a traditional lingerie chest. Upper 4 are lined with velvet, lower 3 lined with aromatic cedar. Hanging pegs are attached to body of chest instead of doors. Recipient wears pins, brooches, and bracelets, no rings, so no ring-rolls in jewelry box. Mirrored lid hinged with stopped Brusso hinges, top of lid has detente to hold cell phone for overnight charging. Doors are latched with rare-earth magnets. Finish is brushing lacquer. Completed piece combines the Arts & Crafts ethos with the client's asks for functionality and aesthetics.