Lot 242
C.F.A. VOYSEY (1857-1941) FOR BENJAMIN PARKES & SON, DUDLEY
EARLY FIRE SURROUND, CIRCA 1890
Auction: Design Since 1860 Day One | Wed 14th October | Lots 1 to 245
Description
repoussé-decorated brass, cast iron, bears registration no. 143252
Dimensions
51cm wide, 94.5cm high, 4cm deep, internal dimension 43cm wide, 67cm high
Footnote
Literature: Dekorative Kunst. 1. 1898, C.F.A. Voysey, pp. 241-276, illustration on p. 256
Advertisement for Messrs Ben Parkes & Son, RIBA archive: SB117/VOY[430]
This fireplace surround represents an early design by Voysey as he was supplementing his nascent architectural practice with designs for industry. The firm of Benjamin Parkes Ltd of Hill Crest, Tipton Road, Woodsetton, Wolverhampton recorded this design in January 1890. Voysey designed an advertising sheet for the firm, dating to around 1890, and promoting its wares as manufacturers of “all wrought or case metal work connected with fire places” (see illustration) and shows an array of fireplace objects including a frieze of galleons.
The image of a galleon in full sail is a familiar motif which Voysey returned to several times. He produced a hallmark for Essex & Co., a prominent wallpaper manufacturer for whom he designed wallpapers from 1893. This hallmark bears a remarkable similarity to the imagery seen on the present lot. The galleon on the fire insert demonstrates a looser handling of the motif than that designed for Essex and Co., however when Voysey did return to an old design, it invariably involved him 'tightening up' and formalising his more naturalistic, early designs.
With thanks to Dr Tony Peart for his assistance with this lot.