Modern Design In Metal by Richard Stewart

After featuring Modern Design In Wood by Richard Stewart, it seems only right that we feature the companion piece - Modern Design In Metal by Richard Stewart, which is even better.

Again published in 1979, Modern Design In Metal is pretty much a must-have for anyone interested in 70s design. Covering everything from sculptural pieces to interior design, it flags up all the big names as well as some minor players worth seeking out. The name items include sculpture from Barbara Hepworth, Georg Jensen jewellery, Garrard candelabras, Heals tableware, David Mellor cutlery, Pieff and of course, Merrow Associates furniture (including a stunning Merrow desk).

A superb reference, not to mention a fascinating read. Again, this is long out of print, but Abebooks should throw a couple of copies up.

Search for a copy at the Abebooks used book website

Modern Design In Wood by Richard Stewart

Modern reference guides are fine, but books contemporary to an era are usually so much more informative. And a number of these books are sought-after by both dealers and collectors of mid-century design. One such book is Modern Design In Wood by Richard Stewart.

Printed in 1979, Modern Design In Wood is a superb reference to an era not particularly well documented - wood-based design from the late 60s and into the 1970s, with everything from sculpture and jewellery through to tables, cabinets and fitted units. It's particularly strong on stylish designs by a host of (as now) lesser-known British and European designers that are currently on the rise - and Merrow Associates features prominently.

If you spend your time browsing eBay or trawling house clearance stores, this is certainly a good book to absorb. Long out of print, but you can easily pick up used copies on Abebooks. Indeed, the book itself could well be an investment for the future.

Search for a copy at the Abebooks used book website