Items Similar to Antique Hobbs & Co. London Regency Style Exotic Zebra Wood Collector's Cabinet
Want more images or videos?
Request additional images or videos from the seller
1 of 21
Antique Hobbs & Co. London Regency Style Exotic Zebra Wood Collector's Cabinet
About the Item
An extraordinarily rare collector's cabinet by Hobbs & Co., in most distinctive zebrawood, with side-locking mechanism, and interesting provenance!
London, England, late 19th century, Regency style, very fine quality craftsmanship, construction, and materials, the whole exceptionally executed of precious African zebra wood, showcasing the distinctive warm rich contrasting colors and dramatic highly figured grain patterns, even the underside and drawer interiors are crafted of the scarce exotic solid hardwood indicating the maker clearly spared no expense!
Having a flat rectangular top with molded edge and desirable overhang, over a gently tapering trapezoidal case, fitted with eight graduated drawers, each with a turned pull and dovetail joinery, all secured by a hinged strip side lock panel, the brass lockplate stamped "Hobbs & Co London Lever" twice, affixed with a silver diamond-form escutcheon embellished with intricate incised detailing and retaining the original key, raised on a molded plinth base.
- PROVENANCE / ACQUISITION -
Property from the distinguished Nelkin Collection
We acquired it from the above previous owner in September 2024 through Heritage Auctions, Dallas, Texas, Fine & Decorative Arts from The Nelkin Collection Showcase Auction catalog #15232, lot #23279;
Heritage Auctions was honored to handle The Nelkin Collection, property from the estate of the late Ruth Sylvia Nelkin (1927-2022) of Stamford, Connecticut, and New York City.
When Ruth Nelkin wasn't occupied with philanthropic work, she spent whatever spare time she had in the company of antiques dealers, galleries and auctioneers, searching for extraordinary works of art. Those who knew her remember a meticulously dressed, fierce negotiator who knew what she wanted and what was needed to acquire it. The Nelkins' varied possessions had one common denominator: quality. She sought and found items of the highest caliber in every category: a precious Russian object one day, a virtuoso piece of French art glass the next, her buying punctuated with pieces of historical Americana, American paintings, Asian ceramics, Wedgwood pottery and objets de vertu of the highest order. Above all, however, was her passion for ukiyo-e, the Japanese art of woodblock printmaking.
The Nelkin legacy is present in each item on offer, the majority of which have not seen the market for well over 30 years. Ruth Nelkin safeguarded these treasures during her lifetime, and now other collectors will have the opportunity to benefit from her connoisseurship and exquisite taste, knowing that every purchase will benefit the American Red Cross, Paws for Purple Hearts, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals and Greenpeace.
- DIMENSIONS -
22.875" Tall, 16.5" Wide, 12.5" Deep
(58.1 x 41.9 x 31.8 cm)
As warm and handsome as it is functional, having the ideal size and proportions for a variety of different uses, including as a large tabletop cabinet, exhibition quality specimen cabinet or cabinet of curiosities, free-standing as an end table or bedside nightstand, diminutive Wellington chest of drawers, oversized jewelery casket, strong box coin safe, trinket case, multi-drawer parts organizer, photograph storage, and more
Emphasizing purity of detail, structure, and utility, with its clean straight lines, simple form, masculine design, and overall general lack of carvings, elaborate contours or applied ornamentation, the cabinetmaker allowed the carefully hand selected rich contrasting exotic wood veneer to become the focal point and serve as decoration. With its visually striking grain patterns, brillant bold colors and warm lustrous glow, this spectacular cabinet is sure to add a touch of refined elegance, sophistication, rich warmth, functional comfort, and an ultra luxurious presence to any space!
- HISTORY -
About Hobbs & Co. London / Alfred Charles Hobbs:
In the world of antique furniture, there are few pieces as captivating and enduring as the examples crafted by Hobbs & Co of London. These exquisite pieces tell a story of timeless elegance, masterful craftsmanship, and a legacy that has left an indelible mark on the world of interior design.
The history of Hobbs & Co London is a tale of tradition, innovation, and uncompromising craftsmanship. Established in the mid-19th century, this British furniture maker quickly gained a reputation for producing some of the most exceptional pieces of their time.
Alfred Charles Hobbs (1812 – 1891) was born in Boston in America. He became a salesman for one of America’s foremost lock manufacturers – Jones & Newell in 1840. He travelled to London for the 1851 Great Exhibition and caused a storm when he managed to pick both a Bramah lock and also the famous Chubb detector lock.
As a result of his newfound fame, he formed a company in London which was formally registered as Hobbs & Co.
Known for its dedication to producing high-quality furniture, using only the finest materials and attention to detail, the company was very successful at combining advanced machine production methods with traditional craftsmanship and the latest design trends, ensuring that each piece was not only functional but also a work of art.
Their commitment to excellence made them one of the most respected furniture makers in London, and their work became highly sought after by discerning collectors.
The firm went through various incarnations becoming Hobbs, Ashley & Co in 1855 and then Hobbs, Ashley & Fortescue and finally Hobbs, Hart & Co in 1860 based in Cheapside in London.
In 1860 Alfred returned to America after the death of his partner Ashley. He had never intended to stay in Britain, so was happy to sell the thriving firm on to John Mathias Hart, whilst maintaining a beneficial interest in it. He returned to England in 1872 to celebrate their 21st anniversary.
Alfred Hobbs died in 1891 but the company and legacy he built continued producing exceptional furniture for years to come
- CONDITION REPORT -
A superb museum quality example, this cabinet is in overall great original antique condition, with nicely aged patina and lustrous sheen.
Strong, sturdy, stable, structurally sound, the cabinet presents well, minimal wear commensurate with age & use, including very minor nicks to edges, abrasions, light surface scratches, and some discoloration to drawers' interiors. Drawers slide smoothly. Accompanied by key.
Delivered lightly cleaned, waxed, with hand rubbed polished patina, ready for immediate use and generational enjoyment!
- Creator:Hobbs & Co. (Maker)
- Dimensions:Height: 22.875 in (58.11 cm)Width: 16.5 in (41.91 cm)Depth: 12.5 in (31.75 cm)
- Style:Regency (In the Style Of)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:circa 1890
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use. Superb museum quality example, great original antique condition, presents well, structurally sound, minimal signs of wear commensurate with age & use. Please see photos & description for detailed report. Delivered cleaned, waxed, ready for use.
- Seller Location:Forney, TX
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU5977245443582
About the Seller
4.8
Platinum Seller
Premium sellers with a 4.7+ rating and 24-hour response times
Established in 2013
1stDibs seller since 2021
287 sales on 1stDibs
Typical response time: 1 hour
- ShippingRetrieving quote...Shipping from: Forney, TX
- Return Policy
Authenticity Guarantee
In the unlikely event there’s an issue with an item’s authenticity, contact us within 1 year for a full refund. DetailsMoney-Back Guarantee
If your item is not as described, is damaged in transit, or does not arrive, contact us within 7 days for a full refund. Details24-Hour Cancellation
You have a 24-hour grace period in which to reconsider your purchase, with no questions asked.Vetted Professional Sellers
Our world-class sellers must adhere to strict standards for service and quality, maintaining the integrity of our listings.Price-Match Guarantee
If you find that a seller listed the same item for a lower price elsewhere, we’ll match it.Trusted Global Delivery
Our best-in-class carrier network provides specialized shipping options worldwide, including custom delivery.More From This Seller
View AllAntique French Louis XVI Style Sunburst Inlaid Bedside Cabinet
Located in Forney, TX
A stunning antique Louis XVI style bedside cabinet with outstanding patina. Hand crafted in France during the late 19th / early 20th century, having a marble-top on a parquetry and s...
Category
Early 20th Century French Louis XVI Cabinets
Materials
Metal
Pair of Custom Antique Continental Mahogany Side Cabinets
Located in Forney, TX
A pair of European mahogany secretary cabinets, fashioned from a double pedestal desk, born in Continental Europe in the early 20th century, each antique office cabinet...
Category
Early 20th Century European Cabinets
Materials
Brass
Antique Religious Polychrome Gilt Wood Cast Iron Tabernacle
Located in Forney, TX
A scarce antique European religious polychromed gilt wood and cast iron mounted church altar tabernacle.
Hand-crafted in the 19th century, hig...
Category
Antique 19th Century European Empire Revival Cabinets
Materials
Iron
19th Century French Louis XV Style Gilt Bronze Mounted Cabinet
Located in Forney, TX
An exceptional French side cabinet from the late 19th century. Likely Parisian in origin, elegantly refined, finished in the luxurious and sophisticated Louis XV taste, presenting with the striking original decoratively shaped variegated specimen marble top with molded edge, atop the gravefully curvacious bombe form case, adorned with intricate geometric diamond parquetry, hand-crafted, of fine quality, craftsmanship and rich detailing throughout, the solid wooden chest fitted with two dovetailed drawers over a spacious single large cabinet door, all open to reveal luxurious rich mahogany finished interior, decorated with finely gilded chiseled and sculpted bronze ormolu fiolate motif mounts, original pull fittings, gilt brass running ornamentation accents the scalloped apron, flowing elegantly down the short cabriole legs, terminating in elaborate bronze sabots.
As warm and attractive as it is useful, having the ideal proportions for a variety of different uses, including as a hall console, dry bar cart - liquor cabinet, side table, accent table, sideboard server, linen or towel storage...
Category
Antique 19th Century Louis XV Cabinets
Materials
Marble, Brass, Bronze, Ormolu
Antique Italian Renaissance Era Brass Mounted Walnut Table Cabinet Wall Cupboard
Located in Forney, TX
A rare and unusual antique Italian walnut table-top cabinet (now also wall hanging cupboard), 17th century and later elements, with handsome warm rich dark patina and interesting pro...
Category
Antique 17th Century Italian Renaissance Cabinets
Materials
Brass, Iron
French Rosewood Faux Book Bedside Cabinet
Located in Forney, TX
A stylish, superbly handcrafted French rosewood inlaid bedside cabinet or end table from the second quarter of the 20th century. The fine vintage piece, circa 1940s, features beautif...
Category
Mid-20th Century End Tables
Materials
Bronze, Ormolu
You May Also Like
Regency Mahogany Collector's Display Cabinet
Located in Bradenton, FL
An English Regency mahogany collector's display cabinet is an elegant and refined piece of furniture typical of the Regency period (early 19th century, roughly 1811–1820). The style ...
Category
Antique Early 19th Century English Regency Cabinets
Materials
Mahogany
$4,950 Sale Price
25% Off
Belgian Oak Collector's Cabinet, circa 1920
Located in Evergreen, CO
Beautiful from every angle, this collector's cabinet from Belgium is made of oak and finished with a lovely stain. It features a drop-down door that opens to five graduated drawers t...
Category
Early 20th Century Belgian Cabinets
Materials
Oak
18th Century Dutch Collector's Cabinet
Located in Dallas, TX
18th Century Dutch Collector's Cabinet was designed for the express purpose of keeping a wide variety of numerous collectibles in one case, and features, behind the main cabinet door...
Category
Antique Late 18th Century Dutch Dutch Colonial Cabinets
Materials
Wrought Iron
Egyptian Revival Collector's Cabinet on Stand
Located in El Monte, CA
This is a highly unique hand-painted and inlaid Egyptianesque collector's cabinet that pays homage to ancient Egyptian motifs. The cabinet features a rounded top and bottom, and open...
Category
20th Century Egyptian Egyptian Revival Cabinets
Materials
Wood
Superb Early Victorian Ebony Collector’s Cabinet
Located in Lymington, Hampshire
A superb early Victorian ebony collector’s cabinet, of rectangular form with two cupboard doors opening to reveal four short and two long drawers lined...
Category
Antique 1850s Scottish Early Victorian Cabinets
Materials
Ebony
Victorian Oak Collector's Cabinet, 19th Century
Located in Southall, GB
Victorian oak collector's cabinet.
A late 19th century Victorian oak two door collector's cabinet.
The cabinet doors are decorated with a pair of raised Gothic arch panels and ...
Category
Antique 19th Century English Cabinets
Materials
Oak
$1,990 Sale Price
20% Off