An Ebonised Aesthetic Movement Credenza attributed to Henry W Bately (1846-1932) and dating to the 1880’s. The upper section with galleried crest above a central bevel edged quartered mirror flanked with faux tortoiseshell panels. All the panels have the prettiest flower and leaf decoration. The lower section holds a central drawer to its frieze with large cupboard below. There are two sets of corner shelves to either side with one long shelf to its base. The central door panel has a beautiful painting of a bird amongst foliage on a gilt background. The piece is also decorated with an attractive gilt painted stringing which contrasts well against the ebonised finish. The whole stands on turned legs. A good looking functional piece of antique furniture from this often over looked period of design. Wear commensurate with age and use. Dimensions: 153cm W x 190cm H x 53cm D

Henry William Batley (1846-1932), one of the great freelance designers of the 19th century, was most widely associated with the Aesthetic Movement. A pupil of Bruce J. Talbert, Batley designed furniture for Collinson & Lock and James Shoolbred & Co. He also designed the interiors for Doulton’s terracotta house, which was exhibited at the Paris Exhibition in 1878 and for which he was to receive the Legion d’Honneur.