The Seven Most Unique Furniture Pieces at the Smithsonian
Sep 29th 2022
We believe unique handcrafted furniture is an artform. And so does the Smithsonian Institution! Here’s a few of our favorite furniture pieces on display in our nation’s capital.
The best kind of furniture is both functional and attractive. And, sometimes, that attractive, functional furniture is considered to be fine art. Check out these incredibly unique pieces featured at the Smithsonian American Art Museum.
El Chandelier
Designed in 1988 by Pepón Osorio, this chandelier is comprised of traditional metal and glass, along with a nontraditional variety of toys and figurines. The piece is an homage to the experiences of minorities in poor urban communities. It was inspired by the many ornate light fixtures Osorio saw as a social worker, even in the most modest of homes. The chandelier features random tchotchkes such as dolls, toy bowling pins, palm trees, plastic animals, sculptures of saints, dominoes, and frogs.
Banjo Chair
For the musically-inclined, this chair would be right at home in a Nashville studio. Crafted by an unknown artist ca. 1875, this chair was likely created for a minstrel show in which instruments like the banjo were commonly played.
Bright City
While this chair may not be the most comfortable, it is no doubt a unique statement piece. Built from aluminum and colored with acrylic paint by Jay Stanger in 1987, it draws inspiration from both geometric and abstract art styles.
Whatnot Cabinet
Sculpted from wood and painted paper, this cabinet features an artistic assortment of ornate patterns and embellishments. It was built by George Farris ca. 1987.
Rocking Chaise
What happens when you cross a chaise lounge and a rocking chair? You get this sleek piece designed by Michael Hurwitz. The ultimate lounging chair was crafted in 1989 using a combination of wood and steel.
Uncle Rick’s Wonderland
Looking like something straight out of Alice in Wonderland, this vanity features bright colors and an incredibly uncommon shape. Carved and painted by “Uncle” Richard Ford in 1997, this is a statement piece like no other.
Ghost Clock
If there was ever a piece built specifically for a haunted house, it would be this clock. However, while it looks like a grandfather clock covered in a white sheet, this piece - crafted by Wendell Castle in 1985 - isn’t really a clock at all. Ghost Clock is carved from a single peice of mahogany and painted to acheive this spooky illusion.
At Penny Mustard, we pride ourselves on building uniquely optionizable, sophisticrafted furniture made by local artisans. Who knows, maybe one our pieces will end up in the Smithsonian one day!
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