Aesthetic Movement Ebonised Pedestal Desk attributed to Daniel Cottier

An ebonised and parcel gilt late 19th century partners desk with four graduated drawers to one side with fretwork gallery on the reverse over two kneehole cabinets, all on four turned and knopped feet

England, circa 1880

Cottier developed an original and highly distinctive style, employing delicately painted surface decoration, often on gold or ebonised ground. His designs frequently drew on the prevailing Japanese style associated with the aesthetic movement but also on Egyptian and Greek sources.

As a designer Cottier became an important international figure and his influence and enterprise extended across several continents. He was even professionally associated with the Van Gogh brothers, recruting a close Dutch friend of theirs to manage his London gallery