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The very fact that you are reading this means that you like to
surround yourself with quality and as far as most aspects of your
life are concerned you probably already have. The comfort and sense
of well being that sheer luxury provides is important to you and so
it should be; it is, after all, what you’ve worked for. But there’s
one aspect of life we often omit from our agenda in the turmoil
of the 21st century, that of acquisition through patronage in a way
that was considered de rigueur in earlier periods of our history and
which provided future generations with what we now refer to as our
heritage. When, in the latter part of the 18th century, a successful
man built a fine house, he also bought himself the latest and best
carriages, many of which were equivalent
to the cost of a new Bentley. He then set about furnishing the
house. Some items he inherited, some he hired for the season but for
the most
part he went to a cabinet maker whose work he admired and
commissioned the making of his dining table, chairs, sideboards,
cupboards, beds, coffers, pedestals and all manner of fine and
useful pieces. As the age of the machine took over the furniture
industry in the 1800’s such patronage of individuals slowly declined
as large manufacturing companies took over.
On top of this the first half of the 20th century saw two world wars
wipe out so much of the industrious youth of the UK that it was
almost impossible to get anything craftsman made until the 1970’s.
Now, thankfully we are in an age of renaissance of the decorative
arts with more skilled young people creating a wider selection
of artefacts than ever before, and for most part equalling and in
some cases bettering their predecessors. However, the practice of
patronage has been lost and it will take time for people to
understand the necessity to revive it. Individual manufacture is by
its very nature a slow process and however good a craftsman is, he
cannot survive without a commission from someone prepared to wait
for something unique that will without doubt become part of our
heritage.
One young man fortunate in this respect is the highly acclaimed
Benjamin Clayton, whose modern workshop and showroom at Worminghall
is a testimony to his skill, determination and ability. Ben’s work
and designs speak for themselves as can be seen in some of the
illustrations here, and I cannot recommend too strongly a visit to
meet him and see his team in action. From small table to immense
kitchens or even a bridge over your lake, nothing is too
insignificant or too large a project. I do urge you to make the trip
and remember, when you place your order you are rekindling the great
age of historic creation for our future heritage. Benjamin Clayton’s
showroom and workshop are conveniently located just 10 minutes from
Junction 8A on the M40 at Wornal Park, Menmarsh Road, Worminghall,
Bucks.
If you would like more information on Benjamin
Clayton’s work call 01844 338899 or e-mail
info@benjaminclayton.co.uk for a brochure.
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