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 Master carver, Robert Ooms, has been carving for over 30 years. Learning some of his early woodworking skills from
his father, what was a hobby has become a life long passion. Over the years, he has produced many carvings, pieces
of furniture, and restorations.
In 1989, he made his first trip to northern Europe where he was impressed by the medieval style of
furniture. Since then, his woodworking passion centers on historic 15th, 16th, and 17th century
reproductions. He
has refined his skills under the tutelage of a renowned European wood carver.
To date, Mr. Ooms has made 8 additional European trips to research, examine, and photograph original works. The
templates for much of his work were inspired by pieces that he found in castles, cathedrals, museums, and antique
shops. He also spent time talking with the curators and vergers who could explain the rich history of the pieces.
After a trip to Ireland, his interest expanded to include projects with a Celtic flavor. One favorite project is
hard carved knotworks.
Once back is the United States, Mr. Ooms has made prototypes of some of his favorite pieces. Each is faithfully
reproduced with the highest quality materials to ensure beauty and durability. In the tradition of master
craftsmen from centuries past, each piece is carved and fitted by hand.
Built to last, most pieces will withstand a lifetime of wear. To accomplish this, only the highest quality
materials are used. A unique feature on many pieces is a
traditional wax finish. This finish gives the furniture a patina similar to
museum pieces which are hundreds
of years old. A true family secret, the wax is blended from multiple special waxes and mixed by hand.
Although the majority of his past projects were constructed from wood, he has done work in more modern mediums.
A recent commission was constructed from oak wood, brass, and plexiglass.
A true international artisan, Robert Ooms' works have been photographed
for publication on both sides of the Atlantic. As
the founder and lead craftmen of Old World Furniture, he oversees all construction and personally inspects every
piece of funriture that leaves the shop.
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