M. Jury Woodworks recognized as Best in Show
Springfield, VA---November 13, 2022 – Judges at the 27th Annual Fine Furnishings Show that was held November 4-6, 2022, in Providence, RI, recognized Michael Jury, principal designer and craftsman at M. Jury Woodworks, as Best in Show – Furniture Design for his Cherry Asa-no-ha Sideboard. The judges were Lynda Simonton, Market Editor at New England Home magazine, and Rosanne Somerson, award-winning furniture maker and Rhode Island School of Design President Emerita. Thousands of items were judged by over 80 artists, craftsmen, and students.
The winning sideboard is built from solid cherry and inspired by Shaker and Japanese designs. The upper case is constructed with hand-cut dovetail joinery, which is visible from the sides as evidence of heirloom construction and skilled craftsmanship. The base features gracefully tapered legs, which is a classic Shaker design element. The highlight of the piece is the two sliding door panels, which feature the asa-no-ha kumiko design. This traditional Japanese lattice pattern represents a hemp leaf, which symbolizes health, resilience, and prosperity in traditional Japanese culture. The kumiko is constructed by cutting angles on individual pieces of basswood with a chisel to create the geometric pattern. The kumiko is backed with black momigami paper to highlight the form. The doors slide in front of three drawers made of solid maple sides, back, and bottom, and constructed with hand-cut dovetail joinery. The recessed ebonized pulls allow the doors to slide in front of the drawers. The piece is finished with hand-rubbed oil varnish and wax.