Arthur Espenet Carpenter Salt and Pepper Shaker in Walnut, 1951

Arthur Espenet Carpenter Salt and Pepper Shakers in Black Walnut, 1951
Signed "Espenet 1951 black walnut"
A rare early work by celebrated American studio furniture maker Arthur Espenet Carpenter, this pair of salt and pepper shakers was hand-turned in 1951 from solid black walnut. Minimalist in form yet rich in material presence, the shakers exhibit Carpenter’s emerging mastery of proportion, balance, and functional design—qualities that would later define his celebrated furniture practice.
Each piece features a gently tapering cylindrical silhouette, with smooth surfaces that reveal the walnut’s natural grain. Signed and dated on the base: “Espenet 1951 black walnut,” underscoring its provenance and early origin in Carpenter’s career.
Dimensions:
Height: 5.50 inches
Diameter: 2.25 inches
Condition:
Excellent vintage condition with light wear consistent with age. The wood displays a rich patina, and the original craftsmanship remains intact.
Provenance:
From a private American collection. Early, signed examples of Espenet’s work are exceedingly scarce, particularly functional objects such as these.
A refined and historic addition to any collection of American studio craft or mid-century modern design.