Stock ref: DS2653
Circa 1960s
A superbly made solid oak 4′ wide Double Wardrobe, a fine example of Thomas Whittaker’s rustic artisan craftsmanship. Adzed panelled and pegged all over with a wooden hanging rail within. Complimented by tradional wrought iron fittings and his trademark gnome carved intricately to the upper front corner edge.
Superb conditon and colour.
Excellent provenance, in use within the Whittaker family home in Littlebeck, inherited and in use until very recently at his daughter Faith’s home.
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: 121.5(w) x 56(d) x 181.5(h)cm