Stock ref: DS2185

Circa 1960s/70s

An excellent solid oak shallow Fruitbowl made by Thomas ‘Gnomeman’ Whittaker in his typical rustic adzed style. Tooled to the inner bowl with a carved tudor rose centrally placed. His signature gnome is carved to the base of the  bowl.

Thomas whittaker (1910 -1991) lived and worked in York and later in Littlebeck, near Whitby, North Yorkshire. His trademark gnome is carved onto most of his post war work and was inspired by a German jewish refugee he met shortly before the outbreak of war who was judging a piece he had entered into the North of England Craftsmen’s Exhibition in Newcastle. He was asked to indenify the piece in some way and the judge suggested the ‘german oak spirit’  the legend being that a gnome is born each time an acorn germinates and will guard that tree throughout its life. His work is now highly regarded and nearly as well known as Robert Thompson’s. His business ceased on his death and his former home and workshop is now a private residence. For those interested in learning more about his life and work i attach a link to a British Pathe newsreel from 1961. Gnomeman Thomas Whittaker

Size: 30(dia) x 5(h)cm

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