Toomey & Co. Auctioneers

Liberty & Co. is a famed British retailer renowned for its distinctive fabric designs, furnishings, and its historic association with Art Nouveau and the Arts and Crafts movements. Founded in 1875 by Arthur Lasenby Liberty in London, the company quickly established itself as a purveyor of luxury goods and eclectic textiles that celebrated craftsmanship and global artistry.

Arthur Liberty initially opened the store with the vision of bringing exotic goods from the East to the Victorian market, selling imported silks, ornaments, and decorative objects. The business grew rapidly, and by the 1880s, Liberty began producing its own line of fabrics, often inspired by Japanese and Oriental aesthetics. These became a hallmark of the store's identity. Liberty textiles, characterized by intricate floral patterns and innovative use of color, gained international acclaim, and by the late 19th century, the brand had become synonymous with the Art Nouveau movement, so much so that in Italy, Art Nouveau was referred to as Stile Liberty.

During the Arts and Crafts movement, Liberty further expanded its influence by collaborating with leading designers of the era, such as Archibald Knox and William Morris. The company offered furniture, homewares, jewelry, and metalwork that reflected the movement's emphasis on high-quality craftsmanship and natural forms. This alignment with progressive design philosophies cemented Liberty's reputation as a trendsetter in British design. The store's iconic Tudor Revival building, completed in 1924 on Great Marlborough Street, became a landmark in London. With its timber-framed façade and rich interiors, the space perfectly encapsulated Liberty's aesthetic ethos.

Liberty & Co. has continued to evolve over the decades, adapting to contemporary tastes while preserving its heritage. Its signature floral and abstract prints remain highly sought after in fashion and interior design. Today, Liberty operates as both a retailer and a design brand, with its textiles featured in collaborations with major fashion houses and designers worldwide. The enduring appeal of Liberty lies in its commitment to artistry, craftsmanship, and the celebration of global influences, making it a beloved institution in the history of British design.