Ray Key (1942–2018) was one of the leading figures in British woodturning and an important influence on the development of the craft in Britain.

Originally trained as a pattern maker, Key began turning independently during the 1960s and by the early 1970s was working professionally. His work became known for its simplicity of form, careful proportions and, above all, respect for the natural character of the timber. Rather than relying on decoration, Key allowed the grain, colour and figuring of the wood to become an integral part of each piece.

These bowls and small turned objects date from the 1990s and are wonderful examples of this approach. Although modest in scale and intended as both decorative and functional objects, each has been individually turned, with variations in profile, proportion and timber giving every piece its own character. The material is always at the forefront, with each form carefully considered to make the best use of the grain and individual characteristics of the wood.

We were extremely fortunate to acquire a private collection assembled over many years. From the day we first handled these pieces, we were in love. Historically, we haven’t really sold small decorative objects, but these spoke to us instantly. It’s not only the object or the skill needed to make it; there is something about them that is quite magical. It’s no exaggeration to say that these are some of our favourite items we sell. We would happily keep all of them.

A contemporary and close friend of fellow master woodturner Bert Marsh, Key was part of an important generation that helped establish British studio woodturning as a recognised craft worldwide. Alongside the works by Ray Key, we also have a large collection of pieces by Bert Marsh.

Key was a founding member and the first Chairman of the Association of Woodturners of Great Britain, later serving as its President. Through his work, teaching and international demonstrations, he became an influential figure in British and international woodturning. His work is represented in important public collections in Britain and internationally, including the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh and the Museum of Arts and Design in New York, as well as numerous private collections.

We haven’t written about each individual item for sale within these descriptions. Instead, we have used the same description across the collection. If you have read this far, all our Ray Key descriptions will be the same.

If you are interested in any of the pieces, or would like to see a selection together, we are happy to arrange a video call or send additional images and videos of your chosen pieces grouped together. We feel they work particularly well in groups. We have a thing for odd numbers. Three, five or seven together just seem to work. They display beautifully and are simply more interesting.

We have given each piece a unique number, so please quote this number with any enquiry. 

The dimensions shown above this description relate to the individual piece, or pieces, photographed within the group on this page.

Viewing is warmly welcomed at our West London showroom.

High-resolution photographs, detailed condition reports and video inspections are available upon request.

We offer local, national and international shipping.

Please contact us for further information or to arrange a private viewing.