The Artistic Furniture of Charles Rohlfs by Joseph Cunningham (2008-11-25)

This publication examines the furniture designs of Charles Rohlfs, one of the most distinctive figures associated with the American Arts and Crafts movement.

Joseph Cunningham situates Rohlfs’s work within the broader context of late-19th- and early-20th-century decorative arts, highlighting his unconventional forms, expressive carving and experimental approach to craftsmanship.

Rather than adhering strictly to functionalist design principles, Rohlfs treated furniture as an artistic medium. His pieces often combine sculptural qualities, symbolic motifs and hand-crafted irregularities that challenge conventional distinctions between fine art and applied design.

The book provides historical context, visual documentation and critical analysis, positioning Rohlfs’s production within international design developments while emphasizing its singular, highly personal character.