Old Woodworking Tools.
Long ago and far away, in a previous life, I made my way as a wood sculptor and cabinet maker. While I had a few basic power tools, I preferred working with hand tools. The older the better. Forged from better steel and tempered to hold a keen edge longer than today’s tools. Many of my carving tools are over a hundred years old. A gouge forged from Sheffield steel in the mid-1800s and honed to a razor sharpness is a thing of beauty and a joy to use. Working with those tools was often a zen-like experience. Through my hands and the tool, I become one with the sculpture. The creative process at its best.
Now, my creative spirit is nurtured through still life photography. Though the process of making a photograph is different from carving a sculpture, that all-important zen-like connection remains. From the first glimmer of a concept in my mind’s eye to the final processed image.
The old woodworking tools pictured here are but a few of the nearly 200 in my collection. The gouges and chisel are made by “Addis and Son” of Sheffield, England likely in the mid-1800s and are among the oldest in the collection.
The drawknives and spokeshave are not very old. Each is individually made by hand. Their beautiful rosewood and walnut handles add their uniqueness.
For more of my still life photographs click here and to order your prints please click here.
Stay tuned, there’s more to come. And be safe and healthy. Thanks for reading.