Wharton Esherick's Undulating fireplace wall, 1954

Designed & built in 1954 by architect Elizabeth Hirsh Fleisher, Tulipwood is a house filled with the endeavors of many local artists. Elizabeth was friends with famed wood sculptor and furniture maker Wharton Esherick, who was recognized in his lifetime by his peers as the “Dean of American Craftspeople." She commissioned Esherick to design and build a custom floor-to-ceiling, undulating fireplace to serve as the visual centerpiece of the home.

The result was this magnificent wall that spans the entire width of the living room and continues its motif outdoors through a glass window. The alluring depth of color is enhanced by the gradients of tapering walnut, poplar and cherry woods. The radial lines draw the eye towards the fireplace keeping the attention to the hearth and heart of the composition. 

Three additional lots in this sale from the the Tulipwood property include cabinetry and shelving designed by Esherick for the library as well as wall-mounted cabinets by Paul Evans and Phillip Lloyd Powell.

Learn more about the sale here.