Black Lacquered Chinoiserie Blanket Box

A fabulous early to mid century hardboard blanket box in black lacquer and chinoiserie decoration. The base gilt edged with a painted border containing Webbers signature 'red star' design.

This piece is a wonderful example of 20th-century British folk art, created by the self-taught artist Charles Webber, who lived at Heol-y-Bryniau, Pant, in Wales. His remarkable story was recorded in a contemporary newspaper article, which described how a visit to the Chinese collection at the British Museum with his wife, May, inspired a lifelong fascination with Chinese decorative arts. Teaching himself from books, Webber developed his own interpretation of chinoiserie, creating and decorating furniture with intricate gilded designs, touches of glowing red and elaborate Chinese landscapes.

Together, Charles and May transformed their modest council house into an extraordinary Oriental-inspired interior, with May painting complementary scenes across the walls and ceilings. This piece is one of a large collection of furniture we are delighted to offer for sale, originating from the home of Mr Webber's son. The collection provides a rare opportunity to appreciate the work of this imaginative, self-taught craftsman and offers a fascinating glimpse into a deeply personal interpretation of chinoiserie. His furniture embodies the charm of folk art: individual, inventive and shaped by enthusiasm, ingenuity and considerable dedication, celebrating the enduring appeal of Chinese-inspired decoration in the British home.

The last two images show the original newspaper article, a copy of which will be supplied with this piece.

Date:
Date:
Early to Mid 20th Century
Circa 1930 - 1950

Approx. Dimensions:
Width 88cm
Depth 38cm
Height 50cm