Arthur W. Simpson of Kendal oak bellows
Description
A set of oak and leather fire bellows made by Arthur W. Simpson of Kendal, circa 1915.
The bellows are wonderfully carved on one side with an interlaced repeating leaf pattern. The quality of the workmanship is superb. The top of the handle also has a small carved section. Allegedly the bellows were restored in the 1980s and new leather was fitted. The restoration work looks to have been done very well and the bellows work. The stud work on the leather may be different from the original based on other examples of A. W. Simpson bellows.
The overall design is unique to A.W. Simpson. Many other examples can be seen in the book “The Simpsons of Kendal Craftsmen in Wood 1885-1952”. This particular design also features in a rare catalogue by A. W. Simpson (Image on request). It is hard to date these exactly as this style of bellows was produced from around 1912 up until t least the 1930s and possibly later.
Details
Dimensions: 29 1/2″ long and 9″ across at widest point
Condition: Good. One small nail which holds in the leather hanging strap has been lost
Price: £595