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Master Class The Woodturner

Deon Africa is a woodturner for master craftsman Pierre Cronje, – an established local name synonymous with highly sought-after, timelessly elegant furniture in unlimited period styles and ranging from classic, country and contemporary to custom-made.

All Pierre Cronje pieces possess the stamp of Pierre’s discriminate artistry, blended with clean, structured lines that enhance the natural characteristics of each timber rather than possessing overwhelming form. Pierre oversees the drawings and signs off on every job before it reaches the factory floor. A large proportion of his day is spent checking and consulting on the construction of all furniture items.

Deon has been with the company for over four years – a time in which, he says, he has developed a genuine passion for what he does and those he works with, and refuses to let a significant hearing disability encumber his work and his enjoyment of it.

Pierre says that, despite his disability, Deon is able to fully interpret the exact design he has in mind, and has an amazing feel for proportions. Deon especially favours working with French oak as it is particularly responsive to machine turning and proves very comfortable to work with.

Although his role sees him working with machinery, (much of the machinery in the factory, in fact, dates back to around the 1930s; a time when furniture was crafted rather than manufactured) Deon’s achievements can be attributed to his innate feel for each selected timber – combined with a true gratification for what he does.   

For more information, visit www.pierrecronje.co.za.