Edward William Godwin (1833-1886)
He was an architect, designer, interior decorator, antiquary, theatrical producer, a prominent reformer, writer and critic. He is recognised as being the forerunner of the modern movement.
Born in Bristol and trained as an engineer then articled to the engineer and architect William Armstrong. He set up his own practice in 1854. His first major commission was Northampton Town Hall in 1861. After the 1862 International Exhibition sparked his interest in Japanese works of art which in turn heavily influenced his design from that point.
Plate No 8, Art Furniture Designed by Edward W. Godwin F.S.A. and Manufactured by William Watt, 21 Grafton Street, London. 1877.
He provided designs of furniture for William Watt, William Smee & Co, Cox & Sons, Gillow, Waugh & Co, C. Greaves, James Peddle and Collinson & Lock. He designed Ceramics for Brownfield, Minton, Hollins & Co and Wilcock & Co. Wallpaper for Jeffrey & Co and fabrics for Warner & Ramm.
Susan Weber Soros, The Secular Furniture of E. W. Godwin, 1999