1982.194

Charles Robert Ashbee (designer), Tom Jeliffe (cabinetmaker), E. Johnson (cabinetmaker), E. (1) Jackson (cabinetmaker), Bill Thornton (metalworker), Fred Brown (metalworker)

Mahogany writing cabinet veneered in ebony and holly, oak feet painted red, wrought iron fittings designed by C R Ashbee and made by the Guild of Handicraft. It was probably made as an exhibtion piece, and was housed in Ashbee's mother's house. The shape of this cabinet is based on a type of Spanish cabinet on stand known as a vargueno. The shape and function provided a good base for rich and rather expensive decoration. Like many of Ashbee's cabinets, this piece has a dark and sombre exterior which opens up to a bright and ornate interior, an effect that Ashbee liked. The Guild was offering this piece for sale in 1903 at £80.

Guild of Handicraft

1901 - 1902

Arts & Crafts

mahogany, oak, ebony, holly, wrought iron, pencil cedar, silver plate, leather

, wrought