John J Hodgson & Sue Hodgson Designs Ltd
John J Hodgson has been making miniature furniture now for over forty years. His work appears in many museums and private collections around the world. Jean Nisbett, described John as “The Master” in her book, “Secrets of the Doll’s house Makers”.
John always had a love of antique furniture, especially chairs. When he started hand-carving his miniatures, he was inspired to make them in the style of Thomas Chippendale.
Originally, every piece was hand-carved from wood. For many years he created many wonderful items, such as the double dome secretaire, desks, tables, lacquered cabinets and numerous designs of chairs.
When commissioned to build an exhibition for Hever Castle in Kent, the business evolved and he developed techniques in casting. He produced new and exciting pieces using this new method. The project, lasting nine years, included building an eight foot long gallery with heavily carved panelling in the style of Grinling Gibbons and a half barrelled ceiling in a honeysuckle design. Many hours of work went into the hand-carving and modelling of these masters, from which castings were made.
As many of you know, this new process was developed. John created some elaborately decorative items, including console tables, torcheres and mirrors. Going on to introduce his range of French style furniture, which is so very popular now. All cast from his original hand-carved masters.
Books featuring John’s work include ….
- The Dolls’ House Source Book by Caroline Clifton-Mogg published by Cassell.
- The Secrets of the Dolls’ House Makers by Jean Nisbett. Guild of Master Craftsman Publications Ltd.
- The Ultimate Dolls’ House Book by Faith Eaton, foreword by the late Flora Gill Jacobs.
- The Pistner House by Patricia Pistner which was produced to accompany the exhibition ‘Masters of Miniature – The Pistner Collection’ .
- Magnificent Miniatures by Susie Rogers and Kevin Mulvany
If you need more information please don’t hesitate to send me an email at Sue@Johnjhodgson.com
Sad News About John
I am very sad to inform you that John passed away on Saturday 5th February 2022.
