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.
Stool
Located in Los Angeles, CA
A sculptural walnut stool with rich curves and a deeply patinated leather seat, fastened by prominent nailhead trim. The hand-carved legs and cross-stretcher show expert joinery and ...
Leather, Walnut
Arts & Crafts Stool
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This mid 20th-century Arts & Crafts stool, originating from the Netherlands, showcases a sturdy, robust design with a deep, rich finish that accentuates its solid wooden structure. T...
Wood
Stool or Small Bench
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This French upholstered stool or small bench features an ebonized finish, offering a sleek and sophisticated look. France, circa 1880 Dimensions: 21.5W x 16D x 17H
Wood
Wood Stool Upholstered in Dark Brown Leather from Late 19th Century France
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Wood stool upholstered in dark brown leather from late 19th-century France. Rustic and traditional, this charming piece features metal studs on its siding and gracefully carved legs....
Leather
Stool or Bench
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This English walnut stools is features an unusual curved barrel seat, presenting a unique blend of aesthetic and practical design. England, circa 1880 Dimensions: 23W x 17.7D x 27H
Walnut
Occasional Table
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This occasional table exemplifies the Amsterdam School style with its robust, structured design and tactile, expressive wood grain. The subtle architectural details and the practical...
Wood
Antique Oak Stool
Located in Denton, TX
Antique European oak ottoman in the Louis XIV style.
Upholstery, Oak
20th Century Wooden Stool, Unconventional Design, Eclectic Style
Located in High Point, NC
A 20th century wooden stool defined by its unconventional shape and distinctive structure. The design prioritizes form, making it stand out from more traditional seating examples. T...
Wood
American Aesthetic Oak Thebes Stool
Located in Essex, MA
Typical form. Egyptian revival.
Oak
Oak Stool
Located in Brussels, Brussels
Exquisite early 19th-century English oak stool in the High Period style. A rare collector's item with a superb turned base. Beautiful rectangular top with a curved edge. Suitable a...
Oak
19th Century English Oak Turned Stool
Located in High Point, NC
19th century oak turned stool from England with a newly upholstered seat in linen. The linen top has a decorative single welt surrounding the seat, which accentuates the turned butt...
Linen, Oak
19th Century Stool in Renaissance Style
Located in Paris, FR
Renaissance style stool with a leather seat stretched across an X-shaped frame. The nails used to fasten the seat to the base are flower shaped and the sides of the frame are sculpte...
Leather, Wood
