Stanley Webb Davies is known for his finely crafted furniture and our January Design auction will feature examples of his highly collectable work. His designs emphasise simplicity and functionality, together with the natural beauty of wood.
21 January 2025
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Stanley Webb Davies (1894–1978) was a notable British furniture maker renowned for his work within the Arts and Crafts movement. Based in Windermere, in the English Lake District, his craftsmanship reflected the ideals of the movement, which emphasised traditional techniques, high-quality materials and integrity in design and production.
Born in Darwen, Lancashire, into a family of industrialists, Davies initially followed a path that seemed far removed from craftsmanship, studying history at New College, Oxford and graduating in 1915. During World War I, he served as a conscientious objector, which highlighted his pacifist and ethical principles, and joined the ‘Old Vics’, building huts for refugees.
Stanley Webb Davies of Windermere (1894-1978) (£5,000-8,000)
After the war, Davies sought a simpler and more meaningful life. He apprenticed with Arthur Romney Green (1872-1945) at his workshop in Christchurch, Hampshire where he learned the traditional woodworking techniques that would define his career.
Stanley Webb Davies of Windermere (1894-1978) (£5,000-8,000)
In 1926, with help from his father, he built his workshop, 'Gatesbield', in Windermere. Designed by the architect Kenneth Cross, Davies worked there for the rest of his life. Davies was committed to handcrafting every piece of furniture in his workshop, rejecting industrialised methods. His designs emphasise simplicity and functionality, together with the natural beauty of wood.
Stanley Webb Davies of Windermere (1894-1978) (£5,000-8,000)
His works often featured oak and other fine woods, combined with restrained decoration, such as carved details or inlays. Each piece bore both his monogram and that of the craftsman, along with the date it was made, reflecting pride in their craftsmanship.
Stanley Webb Davies of Windermere (1894-1978) (£5,000-8,000)
Davies retired in 1960, but continued to inspire future generations of artisans and when he passed away in 1978 he left behind a legacy of meticulously produced furniture which is so sought after today.
The craftsmen working on this suite were Brian Braithwaite (fl.1940-54), Richard (Lile Dicky) Cloudsdale (1908-1991), Ernest John Oldcorn (1894-1968) and Fred Ellison (1919-2003).
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