Run by four generations of the family, Crowther of Syon Lodge became synonymous with architectural antiques and garden statuary. They also provided a full decorating service, even providing whole panelled rooms, and have counted among their customers British Royalty, Clark Gable and Vivien Leigh.
The family has now decided to cease trading and on September 24 at Billingshurst Sotheby’s will sell The Crowther of Syon Lodge Collection as the focal point of their garden statuary and architectural items auction.
“Leaden cupids flock under the trees, fauns and satyrs grimace from the undergrowth, round the ancient fountains a cluster of grey stone figures extend their arms, gazing at the dancing water...” was how writer Beverley Nichols described Syon Lodge when he visited in 1951.
As you can see from our illustration, things did not change that much in subsequent years. In dealing and decorating terms this sale of the Crowther stock is the end of an era.
Syonara to an architectural antique dynasty
WHEN Tom Crowther founded Crowther of Syon Lodge dealing in antique chimneypieces in 1876, the prevailing design trends were moving from Gothic Revival to Aesthetic, and over the next 125 years the Middlesex firm have serviced every subsequent design trend.
