Wharton Esherick started his career as a painter and created his own hand carved frames. These frames ended up being more sought after than his paintings.
Frame made by Wharton in 1925
Wharton Esherick, Song of the Broad Axe (1924)
This spurred him to become more focused on sculpting which then led to furniture. He is more known for his unique sculptural furniture. Wharton's early furniture was carved with much ornamentation, he later realized he didn't need “literature,” on his furniture the form was enough.
Early Drop Leaf Desk, 1927
4 years later 1931 Fischer Corner Desk
So, you can see that Wharton really started to simplify forms. Eventually he started rounding them as well which is my favourite work of his.
Steps with Elephants and Donkey Finials (1935)
Music Stand (1962)
Wharton Esherick, 1940
Wharton was definitely a bad ass. This post should inspire you so go out and kiss your girlfriend, climb a mountain without ropes, or paint a beautiful picture of Donald Trump!