L&JG Stickley, Onondaga Shops Desk
$2,400.00
The Onondaga Shops, established in 1902 by Leopold and John George Stickley in Fayetteville, NY, marked the beginning of a long and influential career for the two brothers. Their work, under the L&JG Stickley name, paralleled that of their older brother Gustav Stickley, who had already been running his successful Craftsman Workshops in Eastwood, a suburb of Syracuse, for four years.
Though the styles of the brothers were often similar—rooted in the Arts and Crafts movement—they each brought their unique touch to their designs. L&JG Stickley pieces often shared the robust, mission-style aesthetics with simple lines and fine craftsmanship that Gustav was known for, but over time, Leopold and John George’s work developed its own identity, contributing significantly to American furniture design history.
The desk, model #400, introduced early during the Onondaga Shops period by L&JG Stickley, is a fine example of their early work. Crafted from quarter-sawn American White Oak and fitted with handmade hardware, this model became quite popular, as evidenced by the number of these desks that still surface today. Its enduring appeal lies in the solid construction and timeless design that are hallmarks of the Stickley legacy. The use of high-quality materials and skilled craftsmanship made it a staple in the Stickley catalog during this formative period of their production. Measures 28″ tall x 42″ wide x 26″ deep.
The desk, while in generally good condition, has a couple of noted issues. The center drawer lock was replaced with a bronze knob after it failed at some point, altering its original hardware. Additionally, as with many well-used pieces, the top surface shows signs of wear and has been restored. Despite these modifications, the desk still retains its charm and functionality, maintaining its value as a piece from the early Onondaga Shops period. The restoration of the top ensures its continued usability while preserving the integrity of the original design.