Rare Original King George vi Coronation Stool 1937 Limed Oak by Waring Gillow

Collectors the world over consider furniture maker Edward Barnsley one of the most influential figures in British design. Bringing his own touch to the local standard of crafting, Barnsley worked with rare hardwoods, such as rosewood and black bean, as well the staples of the Arts and Crafts style, like oak and walnut. His use of fine lines, delicate curves and detailed inlays set his work apart from that of his predecessors. 

From Hampshire County, England, Barnsley was practically born to be a furniture maker. His father, Sydney, uncle Ernest and a family friend all practiced the craft and were strong influences on young Edward. At 10, he enrolled in Bedales, a progressive school focusing on practical skills and craftwork.

In 1920, after completing his studies, Barnsley returned to Hampshire and began employment at the workshop of local furniture maker and construction carpenter Geoffrey Lupton. In 1923, Lupton turned over his furniture workshop and client list to Barnsley. When his father died in 1926, Barnsley inherited his father's customers as well.

Barnsley employed numerous craftspeople and laborers — including the notable British furniture maker Alan Peters — increasing production immeasurably beyond that of his predecessors. The workshop created more than 7,000 individual works over the course of his leadership.

When electricity arrived to the shop in 1955, Barnsley was apprehensive about overutilizing mechanical means of production, believing the craftsperson's skill vital to making each piece a success. However, using machines to plane and sand the wood quickly became commonplace at the workshop, helping to boost production significantly.

Throughout his career, Barnsley often took the time to lecture at Loughborough College, passing on his wisdom and understanding of his craft to the next generation. He was also a founding member of the Crafts Council of England, and in 1945, received the title of Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE).

After Barnsley died in 1987, his widow and children gave substantial contributions to the workshop, helping to ensure its financial security for the future. Although Edward Barnsley is gone, the Edward Barnsley Workshop lives on — crafting outstanding furniture with the same level of perfection and vision as its namesake.

On 1stDibs, explore antique Edward Barnsley seating, case pieces and decorative objects.

Historic furniture manufacturing company Waring Gillow Ltd. was at the forefront of luxury English furnishings for the better part of a century. Having furnished era-defining ocean liners — including the RMS Lusitania and HMS Queen Mary — the company’s name was synonymous with prestige.

It began as an informal partnership between English furniture companies Gillows of Lancaster and Warings of Liverpool. Gillows had built a reputation in the 18th and early 19th centuries by providing high-end furniture to some of the country’s wealthiest families. In the 19th century, the Waring company had supplied furniture to major hotels and public buildings across Europe.

The two companies formally merged in 1903, becoming Waring Gillow. With this combined expertise, the company flourished for decades. During the world wars, Waring Gillow converted their factories to produce protective clothing, glider wings and ammunition chests, among many other products.

In 1953, retail conglomerate Great Universal Stores acquired the company and kept the Waring Gillow name. In 1960, Great Universal Stores sold off a large share of the operation to the John Peters furniture retailer, while maintaining some of its manufacturing facilities. 

In the 1980s, Waring Gillow was merged with furniture company Maple and Co. and rebranded as Maple, Waring and Gillow. The spirit of the original Waring Gillow companies still resonated in the sophisticated designs and quality manufacturing.

On 1stDibs, shop antique Waring Gillow tables, cabinets and desks.