Introducing Verity Babbs and the Takes5 chosen by her from the upcoming Design Since 1860 Auction taking place on 7 December. 

Verity Babbs is an art writer, presenter, and host of the art-themed comedy night Art Laughs. She graduated with a degree in History of Art from the University of Oxford and is based in Southampton, England. Her work focuses on accessibility within the art world, and introducing art to new audiences. 

I’ve had the pleasure of working with Roseberys recently as a writer, and am thrilled to get to share with you my top 5 lots from their upcoming Design Since 1860 auction. 

Lot 8: Designer Unknown, Arts and Crafts fire screen, circa 1900

 

First off we have Lot 8 - an Arts and Crafts wrought iron and copper fire screen dating from around 1900. I love the sense of avant-garde glamour this could lend to a living room.

 

Lot 28: Designer Unknown, Secessionist rectangular ink stand, with two covered ink wells, on animal form supports, circa 1910

 

From a similar time, I’ve chosen Lot 28. A Secessionist rectangular ink stand with two ink wells on animal form supports. The item really captures the early 20th century European interest in traveling abroad.

Lot 54: Daum, Topaz coloured vase in geometric design, circa 1930

 

Next I’ve selected Lot 54 - a topaz coloured vase from Daum dating to around 1930. I think the acid-etched patterns are really energising.

 

Lot 84: Designer Unknown, Art Deco five light ceiling light, circa 1920

 

Lot 84 may be my absolute favourite in this auction. The ceiling light dating to around 1920 features these five torches which would look aflame when turned on. They remind me both of the Statue of Liberty, and of Mr Whippy. What a combination!

 

Lot 269: Edward James and Norris Wakefield, Important and unique bed, designed for the Map Room, Monkton House, West Sussex, circa 1935

 

Lastly I’ve Chosen Lot 269, an incredible Surrealist bed designed by Edward James and Norris Wakefield for Monkton House - a house inherited by James and then designed to be a Surrealist paradise with the help of Salvadore Dali. The unusual shape of the bed references crashing waves and there are gorgeous shell motifs on the bed's frame.

 

This auction will take place on Wednesday 7 December 2022

 

BROWSE CATALOGUE

 

Viewing times at Roseberys: 

Sunday 4 December: 10 am - 2 pm

Monday 5 December: 9.30 am - 5 pm

Tuesday 6 December: 9.30 am - 5 pm

 

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