Charles Robert Ashbee (1863–1942) was a desinger and leader of the Arts and Crafts Movement in Britain. Ashbee founded the Guild of Handicraft in 1888 which trained and employed craftsmen who made furniture, metalwork, leatherwork, and jewelry. The Guild expanded rapidly and, in 1891, moved to a larger location at Essex House in London’s Mile End. In 1902, Ashbee moved the business out of London to Chipping Campden in Gloucestershire. The isolation of this location in the early 20th century made it difficult for the Guild to transport items back to the main retail base in London. This difficulty, combined with increased competition forced the Guild to file for bankruptcy in 1907. Ashbee’s influence on Arts and Crafts metalwork was great. He travelled thoughout the United States, lecturing on Arts and Crafts philosophy and design providing inspiration for various American Arts and Crafts workshops which remain active today.
