Dear Forum,
I am coming on a week’s holiday to New York in October and would like to see as much fine furniture, modern and classic, as possible.
If anyone have suggestions for museums, collections, galleries etc in New York City and in the area NYC to Boston I would be very happy.
Also; what is the best Woodcraft in the same area, I’d like one that has a good selection of Lie-Nielsen’s, carving and turning tools. It’s not that much I can take back to Europe, but what I do get, is, believe it or not, close to half price.
If it is of interest I’ll submit a message with some of my experiences of first trip to the US and looking at furniture.
Thanks,
Geir, Norway, Europe
Replies
If you are interested in fine American furniture from the late 1700s, visit the Yale University Furniture Study in New Haven, CT. They have hundreds of pieces of furniture. Make an appointment and get a one-hour exclusive tour with a curator. Bring your camera and take as many pictures as you want. Either Google it or surf from http://www.yale.edu. There is also a museum nearby with a few really great pieces of furniture.
THe metropolitan museum of art has (I think) the second largest collection of American furniture in the world - (wintertur is the largest). THeir European collection isn't bad either.
The Old MErchant's Museum of interesting also.
http://www.toolsforworkingwood.com
Joel,
Is your old tool museum still in operation? We will be there in October and I might be able to drop in.
Thanks
The museum has always been virtual. We just moved the showroom and warehouse to much larger quarters in Brooklyn (about 35 minutes from union square door to door) and we don't know yet if we will be bringing in more stuff than just the tools for sale on display. But certainly come visit as you can play with most of the newer stuff we have.joelSee the website and blog for more details.Joel
http://www.toolsforworkingwood.com
Absolutely not to miss - the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Unbelievably extensive collection divided into furniture types and periods. Also don't miss the Nakashima pieces which are in the Japanese wing of the museum (not with the furniture).
David Ring
http://www.touchwood.co.il/?id=1&lang=e
Geir,
The Metropolitan Museum of Art is spectacular but they have closed the 18th century American wing for renovations. There is still a great deal to see there. It's on Fifth Ave between 82 and 86th St.
If you go to the MET, two things to remember; you don't have to pay the $20 entrance fee. You can offer whatever you want . It's also quite large. You'll do well to get there early and plan what you want to see. It can be overwhelming.
Another you might consider is the Morgan Library and Museum. If you go after 4PM you can view the library and Morgans office at no charge (it's open until 5). The library is quite a room and has one of the most lavish ceilings you will ever see. The museum underwent a major renovation last year and I was fortunate enough to have the job of restoring the furniture. It was fun to be in that environment. It is located at Madison Ave at 36th St. There is also a Norwegian restaurant one block over on Park Ave ( between 35th and 36th St I think) You can get a good lunch at a very moderate price there.
The advice you got to visit the collection at Yale was great. It is fun to be able to see that study collection up close and personal.
In Boston there is The Museum of Fine Arts.
Good luck and safe travels.
Peter
Thank you very much, all of you.
I am looking very much forward to our trip.
Geir
You might also look for furniture stores in Manhattan which have good quality new and classics.
Scott Jordan
Pompanoosuc Mills
Stickley Audi
ASK
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