Description
Edwards & Roberts
A late 19th century, Victorian, mahogany, rosewood banded and marquetry inlaid cabinet on stand of small proportions. The swan neck pediment above a mould cornice with inlaid frieze, above a pair of astragal glazed doors enclosing glass shelves, and with glazed sides. The bow fronted base inlaid with a central urn, above a single frieze drawer, stamped ‘Edwards & Roberts’, standing on four tapering square legs ending in spade feet, and united by an incurved stretcher with urn inlay.
Height 65″ (165cm)
Depth 16.5″ (42cm)
Width 30″ (76.5cm)
Circa 1890
English
Edwards & Roberts was founded in 1845, and had premises at 21 Wardour Street London. By 1892 they occupied more than a dozen buildings in Wardour Street, where they continued to trade until the end of the century. They became one of the leading London cabinet makers and retailers working in a variety of styles, both modern and revivalist. Their business also involved retailing, adapting and restoring the finest antique furniture and there are many examples of their earlier furniture with later embellishments bearing their stamp. Edwards & Roberts specialized in marquetry, inlay and ormolu. Edwards & Roberts was one of the principal London companies working in the taste of the late 18th century. They started business in 1845 and by 1854 were trading as “Edwards & Roberts, 21 Wardour Street, Antique and Modern Cabinet Makers and Importers of Ancient Furniture”. Wardour Street became an important furniture retailing area in the second half of the 19th century. The firm carried a fine and complete library of the old designers (i.e. Chippendale, Adam, Hepplewhite and Sheraton). They ceased trading in 1899 having been at various addresses. c.f.: Wainwright, June 1978, pps. 95-105.
