Superb Holland & Sons Chest of Drawers c. 1870

 
Each drawer stamped ‘Holland & Sons’ and with original brass locks and working key.

In very well cared for and original condition, the chest is made of the finest quality mahogany with a well chosen beautiful mirrored figuring to the drawer fronts. The cabinet work is superb.

With two frieze drawers over three long drawers all fitted with turned mahogany handles which appear to be original. The original drawer linings with finely cut dovetails – all very robust, usable and offering a large amount of storage space.  The drawers open and close smoothly.

Founded in 1803 by William Holland, the company started life as cabinet makers and upholsterers called ‘Taprell, Holland & Son’.  In 1843 Taprell retired and the company became ‘Holland & Sons’ under the sole directorship of William Holland.

 
By 1851, the company employed around 350 cabinet makers. The following year William Holland acquired the prestigious Lancaster and London based firm of Thomas Dowbiggin - makers of the coronation throne for Queen Victoria.  Alongside Gillows, Holland & Sons remain one of the most respected and sought after English cabinet makers.   The firm carried the Royal Warrant as cabinetmakers and upholsterers to Queen Victoria and undertook commissions for Osborne House, supplying furniture in the French manner, for Balmoral, Marlborough House and for Windsor Castle. The company also supplied furniture and furnishings for the Houses of Parliament, The Athenaeum Club, The British Museum and many others. It presented its fine quality, beautifully made furniture and designs at all the major international exhibitions between 1850 and 1900 and enjoyed worldwide acclaim.

Superficial dings and marks consistent with age and use. One brass lock a later replacement.

 
Holland & Sons remained a family run business until the company closed its doors for the final time during The Second World War.