Vessel 1578 by Jörg Pietschmann

Jörg Pietschmann creates sculptural furniture and decor from the hardwood that is native to the region where his workshop is based in Hamburg. His hand-carved walnut benches and coffee tables, with their gnarled tops and natural edges, make for a guaranteed focal point in any living room, while his oak vases and centerpieces have a rustic yet elegant appeal, and feature the knots and cracks that characterized the surfaces of the material it was still in the forest.

Pietschmann works with local timber like poplar, maple and beech, as well as exotic lumber found on his travels. Each piece tells a story of the landscape from which it came.

Pietschmann's love of carving and nature began as a young boy in the countryside of East Germany. He always carried a pocket knife to whittle pieces of wood, and he recalls being artistically inspired by the ruins of the area's abandoned manor houses. As he grew older, Pietschmann's design influences also expanded to include the decorative objects and architecture of ancient cultures like the Egyptians, Vincas, Mayas and the Aztecs. Pietschmann's modern design influences include master woodworkers George Nakashima, Wharton Esherick, Alexander Noll and Sam Maloof.

Before he begins working on a tree trunk, Pietschmann tries to get a feel for what kind of sculpture or object it will be. For every tree, the sculptor strives to preserve its unique character, which means that no two resulting pieces are alike (and no resin, metal or lacquer is used in his process). He follows the form and curves of each piece of wood, allowing the piece to take shape as he works. A final coat of oil renders prominent the striking grain and natural warmth of the material. 

Pietschmann has exhibited his work in Europe and in the United States. He lives and works in Germany.

On 1stDibs, find Jörg Pietschmann tables, serveware, decorative objects and more.