Ebonized Hanging Corner Cupboards

Design attributed to H. W. Batley (1846–1932). Manufacture attributed to Gillow & Co. (1730–1897).
England c. 1875–1880

This associated pair of hanging corner cupboards features painted decorations on their gold-leafed, oak panel doors. Constructed of ebonized mahogany, they are attributed to H. W. Batley and are similar to ones illustrated in his 1882 publication, A Series of Studies for Domestic Furniture and Decoration.

H. W. Batley was described by Lewis F. Day in the “Art Journal” of 1887 as a pupil of Bruce Talbert’s (1838-1881), but Batley’s work has a more pronounced Oriental influence. Batley designed furniture for the cabinetmakers James Shoolbred & Co. and Collinson & Lock.

A bookcase by Batley with related details and turnings is illustrated in the auction catalog The Best of British, Sotheby’s, March 20, 2008.