Elbert Hubbard vs. Roycroft

Attribute	Elbert Hubbard	Roycroft
Founder	Elbert Hubbard	Elbert Hubbard
Year Founded	1895	1895
Location	East Aurora, New York	East Aurora, New York
Philosophy	Arts and Crafts movement, anti-industrialism	Arts and Crafts movement, anti-industrialism
Products	Books, furniture, metalwork, leather goods	Books, furniture, metalwork, leather goods

Background

Elbert Hubbard was an American writer, publisher, artist, and philosopher who is best known for founding the Roycroft artisan community in East Aurora, New York. Hubbard was a prominent figure in the Arts and Crafts movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Roycroft community was a hub of creativity and craftsmanship, producing a wide range of handmade goods including books, furniture, and metalwork.

Roycroft, on the other hand, was the name of the community and business enterprise founded by Elbert Hubbard. It was established in 1895 and quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality, handcrafted items. The Roycroft community attracted talented artisans and craftsmen who shared Hubbard's vision of creating beautiful and functional objects.

Philosophy

Elbert Hubbard was a proponent of the Arts and Crafts movement, which emphasized the value of handmade goods and the importance of craftsmanship. Hubbard believed that mass production had led to a decline in quality and individuality, and he sought to revive the tradition of artisanal craftsmanship. He believed that by creating beautiful and well-made objects, artisans could enrich the lives of both the maker and the consumer.

Roycroft embodied Hubbard's philosophy of craftsmanship and quality. The artisans at Roycroft were dedicated to producing items that were not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. Each piece was carefully crafted by hand, using traditional techniques and high-quality materials. The attention to detail and commitment to excellence set Roycroft apart from other manufacturers of the time.

Legacy

Elbert Hubbard's legacy is closely tied to the success of Roycroft. His vision of creating a community of artisans who valued craftsmanship and creativity continues to inspire artists and craftspeople today. The Roycroft community thrived under Hubbard's leadership, producing a wide range of goods that were highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.

Roycroft's legacy is one of innovation and excellence in craftsmanship. The community's dedication to quality and attention to detail set a new standard for handmade goods in America. The influence of Roycroft can still be seen in the work of contemporary artisans who continue to uphold the values of craftsmanship and creativity that Hubbard championed.

Impact

Elbert Hubbard's impact on the Arts and Crafts movement cannot be overstated. His advocacy for handmade goods and traditional craftsmanship helped to revive interest in artisanal techniques and materials. Hubbard's writings and lectures on the value of craftsmanship inspired a new generation of artists and craftspeople to pursue their creative passions.

Roycroft's impact on the world of design and craftsmanship was significant. The community's commitment to quality and innovation set a new standard for handmade goods in America. Roycroft products were highly sought after for their beauty and craftsmanship, and the community's influence can still be seen in the work of contemporary artisans who continue to uphold the values of quality and creativity.