Torr Antiques & Decorative Arts

Description

This is a superb 1920s Arts and Crafts oak glazed bookcase by P. E. Gane Ltd, a Bristol-based company with a reputation for manufacturing high class house furnishings. Each of the four shelves is enclosed by a pair of glazed doors opened using a small brass knob. A manufacturer's label for P.E. Gane Ltd is attached to the inside top right door. Though possessing a style similar to a shop fitting from the early 20th century, this bookcase was made to be free-standing.

Dimensions:
Width 81 cm (32 in)
Height 131 cm (4ft 3 1/2 in)
Depth 24 cm (9 1/2 in)

Condition: The bookcase is in fine antique condition with minor age-related marks. All doors fit snugly. It has been waxed and buffed in our workshop.

Delivery: This bookcase can be delivered to most places on mainland England and Wales for £60 by our trusted delivery person. You can also arrange your own courier if you prefer, or collect in person from the Tunbridge Wells area.

Background information:
P.E. Gane Ltd (1909-1954), were cabinet makers who became associated with producing quality Arts & Crafts and Art Nouveau furniture.

Philip Endres Gane became sole proprietor of Trapnell & Gane cabinet makers in 1909 and took the opportunity to not only change its name to his own, but also to move away from the more traditional commissions from royalty and the establishment, and explore new developments in Arts & Crafts and Art Nouveau design.

In the 1930s the firm successfully collaborated with Marcel Breuer, the Modernist. Philip’s two sons, Leslie and Crofton joined the firm and took over when their father died in 1933. World War II took its toll when the firm’s premises were largely destroyed in 1940 by enemy action.

Unfortunately, the company never really recovered from the war and the company went into voluntary liquidation in 1954.