The Bonsack Collection
Godfrey Bonsack (d.1987) was an extraordinary and most entertaining character, and together with his wife Elsa, who was the epitomy of elegance and chic, enlivened Mayfair over many years. As Francophiles, the glittering arts of France played an important role in the 'Bonsack' style, introduced by their firm 'Godfrey Bonsack Ltd., Interior Decorators', following its establishment beneath their Davies Street home in 1953. They were perfectionists and 'We are only interested in the excellence of excellence,' became a typical motto. Indeed Godfrey's skills as architect/designer was reflected throughout every aspect of his transformation of a London apartment or embellishment of a mansion, such as Hever Castle, Kent. In 1957 the firm adopted the title of 'Interior Designers (Designs for Industry) Ltd', and by this time its small shop at No. 25, Davies Street was overflowing with decorative objects, Parisian light fittings etc. and resembled a glamorous warehouse. Naturally their decorating was not limited to the design of wall-panelling, hangings, upholstery etc. but regularly encompassed everything from the furnishing of paintings and antique furniture to the supply of a bath-mat. Their move to nearby premises at No. 14 Mount Street took place in 1960, and its grand gallery enabled the display of antique items together with beautiful contemporary objects and ormolu fittings. Indeed, it was golden taps, formed as swans or dolphins, that really began Godfrey's elevation to 'King of the Bathroom'; especially when he began the retailing in the mid 1960s of polychromed 'Bonsack Baths (London) Ltd., Luxury Bathroom Manufacturers', the fame of the firm was later assisted by Harrods' establishment of the 'Bonsack Bath' section between 1981 and 1991.
However, while the work of John Fowler, 'doyen of English decorators for twenty-five years after the Second World War', has been chronicled by John Cornforth's 'The Inspiration of the Past 1985, it is perhaps time for attention now to be focused on the contribution of some of his contemporaries, including Godfrey and Elsa Bonsack. It was the latter who wished for the proceeds for this 'Bonsack' sale to benefit the Institute of Cancer Research: Royal Cancer Hospital.
OBJECTS OF VERTU
Lots 1 - 11
The Property of the Late Mrs G Bonsack
English School, circa 1920
Details
English School, circa 1920
A young Boy, seated facing right in blue coat and white shirt, sholding a red book, landscape background (cracked)
signed D.A.F.R... and dated 1921, unframed
oval, 4 3/8in. (111mm.) high
A young Boy, seated facing right in blue coat and white shirt, sholding a red book, landscape background (cracked)
signed D.A.F.R... and dated 1921, unframed
oval, 4 3/8in. (111mm.) high