Articles

Canterbury

The name Canterbury comes from a piece of movable furniture, which was liked by an unknown archbishop. It appeared in the 18th century as an atlas stand and even a food trolley, but from about circa 1800 it was established as a holder for music. The Canterbury is made in all woods and there are also lacquered, bamboo and papier mache versions. More often they are made in either rosewood or mahogany and more rarely in satinwood.

Credenza

The Credenza evolved answering the demand of the middle class Victorians for something flashy which would reflect their taste and aspirations. They wanted value for money and with the credenza they found it, for it may be considered the quintessential piece of classic Victoriana. All woods were used, walnut with marquetry being the favourite, they were ebonised, hand-painted, mounted with bronze, brass and porcelain plaques. The tops would either be of marble or in figured veneer. Credenzas come in many different sizes and at any time Bushwood Antiques hold more than ten in stock.

Pembroke

The name Pembroke is obscure, and in Sheraton’s Cabinet Dictionary of 1803 he suggests it was named after a lady who first gave orders for one of them, and who probably gave the first idea of such a table to craftsmen. It is also said that the table was first commissioned on behalf of Henry Herbert, Earl of Pembroke – although on this point we are afraid you will have to decide. A Pembroke has two drop leaves known as flaps and they can vary considerably in size, but often provide a modest additional surface. It stands on four legs and more often than not has a single drawer.