Forward-thinking designer Dr Christopher Dresser covered a span of materials across varying forms of art. Our next Design sale on 22 October includes 12 lots of Dresser's work, from the collection of Dr William Lind.
17 October 2024
VIEW COLLECTION REQUEST A VALUATION CONTACT A SPECIALIST
The late 19th century is typically characterised by industrial and factory-driven production, with designers playing a less prominent role than in the early 20th century. Dresser bucked this trend, establishing himself as a pioneering designer known for working with a wide range of materials and art forms, securing his place in the annals of history.
Dr Christopher Dresser (1834-1904) (£300-500)
Consigned to the sale are 12 lots from the collection of Dr William Lind, a former school headmaster. Dr Lind’s collection spans metalwork, textiles, glass, ceramics, and even Dresser’s book – ‘Principles of Decorative Design’. Having such a wide breadth of objects on offer provides an opportunity to see the decorative motifs that Dresser returned. Lot 13 features a brass jug designed for R Perry, Son & Co; the handle of this piece mirrors the form of the Linthorpe pottery jug that forms part of lot 16. The aforementioned Linthorpe pottery jug was a favourite of Dr Lind, commenting on how he would tell friends “It is from the 70s… 1870s!”, often to much surprise given its avantgarde form.
All by Dr Christopher Dresser or attributed to Dr Christopher Dresser (1834-1904) (Lot 15: £1,500-2,000; Lot 13: £200-300; Lot 14: £600-800; Lot 10: £400-600)
Two significant works front the collection, the first being lot 19 - ‘The Empire Quilt’. This fantastic satin appliqué by Barlow & Jones was produced for Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee and is complete with its patent numbers. It is a piece which benefits from being viewed in person to fully appreciate the fine nature of the textile. Lot 15, attributed to Christopher Dresser, also falls into the significant category. Likely produced by Elkington & Co, it mirrors the renowned silver-plated conical bowl produced by Elkington which is illustrated on the front cover of Widar Halén's 'Christopher Dresser'.
Attributed to Dr Christopher Dresser (1834-1904) (£1,500-2,000)
We are delighted to be able to offer this fantastic and broad collection in our Design sale on 22 October. It provides an opportunity to acquire a piece of design from one of the most highly regarded designers of the late 19th century.
design@sworder.co.uk | 01279 817778
We are thrilled to launch The Glass Sale - a brand-new addition to our auction calendar! The inaugural sale will take place on Tuesday 28 October and will become a biannual fixture in our calendar going forward.
20 June 2025
We are proud to announce our collaboration with Britten Pears Arts, a pioneering music, arts, and heritage charity based on the Suffolk Coast. Custodians of two iconic and historic sites – Snape Maltings and The Red House – Britten Pears Arts has been a cultural cornerstone since 1948.
19 June 2025
An impressive single-owner collection of Eric Ravilious ceramics will star as one of the standout sections in our upcoming 8 July Design sale.
19 June 2025