Object Description
A Substantial Walnut Partners’ Desk
By Holland & Sons
A fully fitted partners desk with identical arrangements to both sides, constructed using finely figured walnut and with a tooled Morocco leather top, the pedestal desk resting on plinth bases with stiff-leaf carved moulding, each of the pedestals with two drawers of double-depth, with three lockable single drawers in the frieze to either side, all with turned and carved wooden knobs, the panelled sides fitted with a single central cupboard containing a dozen pigeonholes and a drawer; the four angles of the desk with carved foliate designs and anthemia flanking a scrolled cartouche bearing the initials “F.C.D.” The drawer stamped ‘Holland & Sons’ and the Chubb lock numbered 642085, corresponding to c.1872
English, circa 1875
While research is still ongoing, the private papers at the V&A mention a “pedestal desk stamped” belonging to a certain Mr Danielson residing at Acacia Lodge, perhaps a reference to the original owner.
Holland & Sons was a preeminent British furniture manufacturer founded in 1803. They quickly gained a reputation for exceptional craftsmanship, earning the prestigious Royal Warrant early in Queen Victoria’s reign. This led to Holland & Sons furnishing many royal residences, including Osborne House, Sandringham, and Windsor Castle.
In addition to royal commissions, the firm played a significant role serving the British government, completing over 300 projects like the Palace of Westminster. They even oversaw the state funeral of the Duke of Wellington.
Apart from their royal and state obligations, Holland & Sons also received celebrated private commissions, such as a suite of furniture for Luton Hoo. Throughout their history, the firm remained at the forefront of design, employing esteemed designers and participating in major international exhibitions.