Liberty & Co. Folk Art

British

Long before Liberty became one of London’s most iconic luxury department stores, shoppers of the late 19th century knew it as Liberty & Co. — purveyors of fine silverware designed in the Art Nouveau style, Arts and Crafts-style furniture and an eclectic assortment of ornaments, fabrics, fashion and other goods from around the world.

British merchant Arthur Lasenby Liberty founded Liberty & Co. in 1875. Liberty dreamed of selling an assortment of fine wares he obtained in the Far East from a ship docked in the middle of one of London’s busiest shopping thoroughfares. However, he could only manage to borrow £2,000 from his father-in-law, so he settled for a small shop on Regent Street.

What began as a modest business grew exponentially over the next few years, and, by 1890, Liberty & Co. occupied most of Regent Street. Meanwhile, Liberty forged relationships with many British Art Nouveau artists and designers who were keen to work with one of the most prestigious retailers in London.

In 1899, Liberty & Co. hosted an exhibition showcasing a collection of silver pieces designed by notable silversmiths like Oliver Barker, Albert Edward Jones and Bernard Cuzner. A line of silverware called Cymric also debuted and was produced in partnership with silversmith W. H. Haseler of Birmingham and Liberty & Co.’s chief designer, Manx artist Archibald Knox. The innovative Cymric collection featured a blend of Art Nouveau with traditional Celtic style, including such pieces as candlesticks, spoons, bowls, tableware and jewelry.

Liberty & Co. also had a furniture workshop in Archway, London, run by Lawrence Turner and which employed carpenters to produce handcrafted, Arts and Crafts-style armchairs, stools, bookcases, cabinets, side tables and other furniture. Most of these high-quality and durable pieces were made of solid wood such as oak, mahogany and walnut. In addition to their own in-house creations, Liberty & Co. also sold furniture by other designers, including chairs by German architect Richard Riemerschmid.

Liberty died in 1917, and Liberty & Co. became Liberty of London after relocating to their iconic location on Great Marlborough Street in 1924. Ironically, the imposing Tudor Revival building is constructed from the timbers of two decommissioned British Navy ships — realizing Liberty’s original “ship-store” dream.

On 1stDibs, discover a range of antique and vintage Liberty & Co. serveware, seating and decorative objects.

Liberty & Co. folk art for sale on 1stDibs.

Liberty & Co. folk art are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of wood and are designed with extraordinary care. Many of the original folk art by Liberty & Co. were created in the folk art style in italy during the early 1900s. Prices for Liberty & Co. folk art can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $945 and can go as high as $945, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $945.

Questions About Liberty & Co. Folk Art

What is a Liberty print?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024
A Liberty print is a pattern featured on fabrics made by the British company Liberty Fabrics. More than 45,000 of these prints have been unveiled since the founding of the brand in 1875. The company was initially called Liberty & Co. before the world came to know it as Liberty of London. Although they vary, Liberty prints typically share some similar characteristics, such as featuring natural motifs like flowers and leaves, flowing curved lines and patterning all over. Find a collection of vintage Liberty fabrics and furniture on 1stDibs.
How do I identify Liberty furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 15, 2024
To identify Liberty furniture, check discreet areas for a maker's mark. Most Liberty pieces feature a diamond-shaped tag made of ivorine or enameled brass that bears the Liberty name. Early pieces may feature a red or white paper label, while furnishings from select lines may feature an oval-shaped brass tag with the model and maker names. If you need help determining if a particular piece is a Liberty, a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antiques dealer can assist you. On 1stDibs, explore a variety of Liberty furniture.
Where is Liberty fabric made?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
Liberty fabrics are made near Lake Como, Italy. Every Liberty fabric begins with a pattern hand-drawn by in-house designers located in London. A team of skilled technicians oversees the production of the fabric, and Liberty Fabrics unveils around 150 new materials each year. On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of Liberty of London pieces.
What is Peter Max’s connection to the Statue of Liberty?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Peter Max's connection to the Statue of Liberty is that he created multiple paintings of the famous landmark. He made the first one for America's Bicentennial on July 4, 1976. You can shop a range of Peter Max art on 1stDibs.
Why is Jacob & Co. so expensive?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024
Jacob & Co. is so expensive for a few reasons. For one thing, many of the Swiss watchmaker's timepieces are complicated. One features more than 830 components, each of which must be produced or purchased, tested and painstakingly assembled by hand, adding to the cost. The materials that go into each watch, such as 18-karat gold and genuine diamonds, are costly as well. Plus, only a limited number of timepieces leave the watchmaker's workshop each year, so demand usually far exceeds supply. On 1stDibs, explore a range of Jacob & Co. watches.
Who is Tiffany and Co owned by?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
The legendary American luxury house Tiffany & Co. is currently owned by Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (LVMH), which completed the acquisition of the company in January, 2021. The firm started out modestly — Charles Lewis Tiffany and John B. Young founded it in Connecticut as a “stationery and fancy goods emporium” in 1837, at a time when European imports still dominated the nascent American luxury market. Upon Charles’ death in 1902, his son Louis Comfort Tiffany took over artistic direction for the brand. On 1stDibs, find authentic Tiffany & Co. pieces from some of the world's top sellers.
Is Tiffany & Co. a designer brand?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024
Yes, Tiffany & Co. is a designer brand. Generally, the term designer brand refers to a brand guided by a creative director or chief designer. Tiffany & Co. fits this definition and has partnered with numerous designers, such as Elsa Perretti and Paloma Picasso, over the years. On 1stDibs, explore a large selection of Tiffany & Co. jewelry.
Does Tiffany & Co. ever have a sale?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 16, 2024
No, Tiffany & Co. generally does not ever have a sale. During its more than 100-year history, the American luxury jewelry maker has reportedly never run a sale. However, Tiffany & Co. does offer jewelry at a wide range of prices to suit a variety of budgets. Shop a diverse assortment of Tiffany & Co. jewelry on 1stDibs.
Is Tiffany & Co. real gold?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes, any gold jewelry used by Tiffany & Co. is real gold. Tiffany & Co. is a luxury jewelry brand and prides itself on high-quality materials and craftsmanship. Tiffany & Co. pieces are offered in gold, rose gold, platinum and sterling silver. Shop a selection of Tiffany & Co. pieces from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
Is Tiffany & Co. real silver?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Tiffany & Co. only uses sterling silver to create their silver jewelry designs. With proper care, the sterling silver of your gorgeous piece will last from generation to generation. You can shop a collection of Tiffany & Co. jewelry from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
Does Tiffany & Co. sell its boxes?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
No, Tiffany & Co. do not sell their famous blue boxes separately. You do, however, receive a blue box with the purchase of jewelry and goods from Tiffany & Co. Shop a collection of TIffany & Co. jewelry from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
Where does Tiffany & Co. get their diamonds?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 26, 2024
Where Tiffany & Co. gets its diamonds varies. The American luxury jewelry house sources gemstones from mines and suppliers in Botswana, Canada, Namibia, Russia and South Africa. All diamonds used by Tiffany & Co. are conflict-free and meet high-quality standards. On 1stDibs, explore a large selection of Tiffany & Co. diamond jewelry.
What does the “1837” on Tiffany & Co. jewelry mean?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
The “1837” stamp on Tiffany & Co. jewelry pieces is the year Charles Lewis Tiffany founded the brand in Brooklyn, Connecticut. Tiffany & Co. continues to be a popular luxury jewelry brand, even trademarking their signature blue as “Tiffany Blue” in 1998. In 2001 they partnered with Pantone to rename and standardized the color as “1837 Blue.” Shop a collection of Tiffany & Co. jewelry on 1stDibs.
How do you tell if a Tiffany & Co bracelet is real?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 30, 2023
To tell if a Tiffany & Co. bracelet is real, first check the overall quality of the piece. Tiffany is revered all over the world, and the storied American luxury house is known for its immaculate craftsmanship and use of high-quality materials. If the accessory is 18k gold, it will be stamped with the number “750.” If it’s sterling silver, it’ll have a “925” stamp, and if it’s platinum, it will feature a “950” stamp. If the bracelet is set with any gemstones, they should be of high clarity and brilliance and evenly set. Diamonds that are selected for use in authentic Tiffany jewelry uphold GIA grading standards. Experts recommend that you work with an appraiser or jewelry industry professional on matters such as determining the authenticity of a given piece. On 1stDibs, find a collection of Tiffany & Co. bracelets from some of the world’s best sellers.
How much is Tiffany and co engagement ring?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021
A Tiffany & Co. engagement ring can cost as little as $13,000 or as much as $500,000 depending on the center stone’s carat weight, the band material and whether or not there are any side stones. The smaller the stone, the cheaper the ring will be. Find engagement rings designed by Tiffany & Co. on 1stDibs.
Does Tiffany & Co. still make China?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes, Tiffany & Co. does indeed still make china. A quick glance on their website reveals chic dinnerware sets crafted in bone china in classic designs and patterns. On 1stDibs, find a collection of authentic Tiffany & Co. pieces from some of the world’s top sellers.
Does Tiffany & Co. use real pearls?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes, Tiffany & Co. uses real pearls in their jewelry. Tiffany & Co. uses a variety of authentic pearl types, including Japanese Akoya, Tahitian, Chinese Freshwater and South Sea pearls. Shop a wide range of pearl jewelry from Tiffany & Co. on 1stDibs.
Do Tiffany and Co. still make lamps?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes and no. Tiffany Lamps are still available, but they’re recreations of old designs and not new models. Tiffany & Co. split off from the lamps division a long time ago with Tiffany Studios taking on the lamp design and products. Tiffany Studios closed in 1930 and there are no new designs. Today you can still purchase new Tiffany Lamps based on the old designs. On 1stDibs, find a collection of authentic Tiffany Lamp pieces from some of the world’s top sellers.
Does Tiffany & Co. jewelry go on sale?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 1, 2024
No, Tiffany & Co. jewelry does not typically go on sale. Occasionally, the acclaimed jewelry house will run in-boutique or online specials to coincide with holidays like Christmas or Valentine's Day, but these sorts of sales do not run regularly. You can find Tiffany & Co. jewelry on trusted online platforms, including 1stDibs. Shop a diverse assortment of Tiffany & Co. pieces on 1stDibs.
Does Tiffany & Co. do Black Friday specials?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 1, 2024
No, Tiffany & Co. does not usually do Black Friday specials. The luxury jewelry house typically doesn't run sales. However, occasionally, it may have special offers available in its boutiques or online. Since these events do not take place on a regular basis, many people choose to shop for Tiffany & Co. pieces from other sources, such as trusted online platforms like 1stDibs. Explore a wide range of Tiffany & Co. jewelry from some of the world's top dealers on 1stDibs.