Art Funded by you

Writing Cabinet

Charles Robert Ashbee, c. 1902

© Photo: Wooley & Quick

One of the most ambitious works by a leading figure of the Arts and Crafts movement, this handsome cabinet is modelled on late nineteenth-century Spanish cabinets, known as varguenes. They look heavy and severe when closed but when opened reveal an expanse of light and colour. In this cabinet, Ashbee has employed dark, close-grained ebony veneer for the austere exterior and lighter woods, floral decoration, silver-plated handles and crimson leather in the interior. This contains a honeycomb of drawers for keeping writing equipment and stamps. It is first recorded in the collection of the designer's mother, Mrs H. S. Ashbee of 37 Cheyne Walk, London, to whom it was presumably given as a gift.

More information

Title of artwork, date

Writing Cabinet, c. 1902

Date supported

1981

Medium and material

Ebony & holly veneer

Dimensions

135.2 x 107.9 x 54.2 cm

Grant

4000

Total cost

29000

Content note: This object record is part of our archive and has not been updated since it was first published. It may contain inaccurate information or outdated language. Please get in touch if you think this record should be amended.

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