Stock ref: DS2076

Circa 1950s

A wonderful example of Thomas Whittaker’s rustic craftsmanship, this traditional solid oak Writing Bureau is adzed all over and features a sloped fall front with very distinctive wrought iron strapping, opening to reveal numerous compartments and a writing desk, supported on two pull out lopers, Below are 2 short over 2 long gradurated storage drawers  with wrought iron teardrop handles and his trademark gnome carved intricately to the  front side corner. 

Cleaned and re-waxed in our workshop it presents in a wonderful  condition and rich colour with just some natural wood splitting to the shaped trestle side. The original key and lock for the fall front are present, but  due to  the natural age shrinkage of the wood no longer match cleanly to work effectively.

Thomas whittaker (1910 -1991) lived and worked in York and later in Littlebeck, near Whitby, North Yorkshire. His trademark gnome is carved onto most of his post war work and was inspired by a German jewish refugee he met shortly before the outbreak of war who was judging a piece he had entered into the North of England Craftsmen’s Exhibition in Newcastle. He was asked to indenify the piece in some way and the judge suggested the ‘german oak spirit’  the legend being that a gnome is born each time an acorn germinates and will guard that tree throughout its life. His work is now highly regarded and nearly as well known as Robert Thompson’s. His business ceased on his death and his former home and workshop is now a private residence. For those interested in learning more about his life and work i attach a link to a British Pathe newsreel from 1961. Gnomeman Thomas Whittaker

Size: 70.5(w) x 45(d) x 106.5(h)cm

Sold

{gallery}DS2076{/gallery}