Exhibition – Part of the Furniture: The Library of John Bedford

The exhibition, ‘Part of the Furniture: The Library of John Bedford‘, which runs until 2nd December 2024, is focused on the library of furniture history, assembled by former antique dealer, John Bedford (1941-2019). 

University of Leeds

The exhibition explores the history of furniture as a subject, highlighting the role that books and publications have played in the evolving discourse, and directing attention to the influential role that antique dealers and collectors have played in the formation of furniture history. It is full of rare and wonderful books and manuscripts, from an early 18th century Apprenticeship Indenture, and a unique copy of Jacques Androuet Du Cerceau’s Furniture Designs (c.1545-1565), to key texts such as Chippendale’s Director (1754) and Sheraton and Hepplewhite pattern books.

The exhibition is free to visit – the Treasures Gallery is open Tuesday to Friday 10am-5pm – and runs from 9th January until 2nd December 2024. Do also keep your eyes open for events associated with the exhibition ‘Part of the Furniture: the John Bedford Library’ throughout 2024.

Jack Plane