1947.147

Edward Barnsley (designer), George Brown (maker), Herbert Upton (maker), Alan Knight (metalworker)

Writing desk made of Japanese oak with chestnut fittings inside and plywood back and drawer linings. Designed by Edward Barnsley and made in his workshop by George Brown and Herbert Upton. It was made for Mrs and Mrs Wales of Minchinhampton. The piece took 213 and a half hours to make. Later in life Edward Barnsley said he disliked the desk and wished to consign it to a bonfire. This is probably because he used a raised section down the outer edge of each door, giving the impression that the doors are set into the framework. This disobeys Arts and Crafts principles about honesty of construction.

, Froxfield, Froxfield

1934 - 1935

Arts & Crafts

Japanese oak, chestnut wood, plywood, leather