Lot 226
C.A. LLEWELYN ROBERTS (1879-1951) FOR E. & R. GITTINS, BIRMINGHAM
ARTS & CRAFTS OIL LAMP, CIRCA 1905
Auction: Design Since 1860 Day One | Wed 14th October | Lots 1 to 245
Description
copper and brass, with opalescent glass shade and chimney, converted to electricity
Dimensions
54.5cm high to base of fitting
Footnote
Charles Arthur Llewelyn Roberts (1879–1951) played a pivotal role in transforming the Birmingham Guild of Handicraft into a leading architectural metalworking firm. Having studied architecture and design at Birmingham School of Art, he initially worked with Gittins, Craftsmen Ltd., where he was the principal designer of its 1905 metalwork catalogue. Following the company’s merger with the Birmingham Guild in 1906, Roberts helped diversify its production from traditional domestic and ecclesiastical metalware into architectural metalwork. He became joint managing director with his brother Hugh in 1914, contributing artistic vision while developing relationships with architects and clients. During the 1920s, Roberts emerged as an innovative Art Deco designer, pioneering the use of vitreous enamel and stainless steel in architectural decoration. His notable work included the Selfridges lift enclosures and decorative features for the National Radiator Building in London.