On Thursday 9th February, His Majesty King Charles visited the newly renovated Leighton House to celebrate the wonderful collaboration with Turquoise Mountain artisans.
His Majesty heard about the intricate craftsmanship and design process behind the pieces, made by master artisans working in Amman – master carpenter, Maher Darwich, and master wood-mosaic artisan, Abdelrahman Shaaban – who His Majesty met while visiting the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in 2021.
In the Main Studio, His Majesty heard about Turquoise Mountain’s ongoing work in Afghanistan and Myanmar, and was shown new work created by artisans across both regions.
Leighton House commissioned Turquoise Mountain to produce a unique suite of furniture for the museum's new wing, on display across the reception space, shop and café. The installation includes a visitor reception desk, display units for the shop and a counter for the new De Morgan café.
Rooted in the history and artistic vision of Frederic, Lord Leighton (1830-1896) with a contemporary twist, the commission was directly inspired by the circular motif of a 17th-19th century Syrian chest on display in the historic staircase hall. Turquoise Mountain’s artisans created the new suite from walnut with inlays in olive, cherry, eucalyptus, dyed walnut, maple and rosewood in a striking ‘shamsa’ or sunburst design.
To enquire about commissioning a bespoke piece or purchasing a piece from the collection, please visit turquoisemountain.org/shop or e-mail shop.jo@turquoisemountain.org