W. A. S. Benson
William Arthur Smith Benson [often known as W.A.S. Benson]
1854 born in London
He studied classics and philosophy at New College, Oxford University (1874-77), following which he was articled to the London architect Basil Champneys (1877-80). Nevertheless, he decided not to make a career in architecture, although he did later work on occasional architectural projects for family and friends.
1877 he became acquainted with Edward Burne-Jones, through whom he met William Morris, who encouraged Benson to become a craftsman.
1880 he left Champneys and opened a small workshop in North End Road, Fulham, London. Initially the workshop made furniture but following the hiring of John Lovegrove, a skilled brass and copper-worker in 1881, Benson diversified into metalwork. Within two years, such was the success of the workshop that they moved into larger premises at Eyot Gardens in nearby Chiswick. About the same time, Benson also opened a studio and showroom at his house in Kensington.
1884 Benson was a founder member of the Art Workers Guild and was instrumental in establishing the Home Arts and Industries Association.
1886 Married Venetia Margaret Hunt
1887 Benson moved his showroom from Kensington to premises at 82 Bond Street, London
1888 He helped to establish the Arts and Crafts Exhibition Society, which provided an opportunity for craftsmen like himself to both exhibit and promote their designs.
1889-90 He expanded his workshop in Chiswick which was renamed the Eyot Metal Works.
1890s Benson had acquired an international reputation for his metalwork which by then had extended to light fittings and a wide range of appliances and fittings for the home, all in the characteristic Arts and Crafts style, including fire screens and fenders, tableware, kettles, urns, etc.
During the 1890s Benson began designing furniture which was made by Morris & Co. and the London cabinetmaker J.S. Henry and Co
1891-4 Installed electric lighting at 'Standen' in East Grinstead, a house designed by Philip Webb for James and Margaret Beale; this was an early example of the electrification of a British house.
1896 following the death of William Morris, Benson took over the directorship of Morris and Co.
1899-1900 Benson installed the lighting in St Paul's Cathedral, London.
A catalogue produced by the Benson in 1899-1900 listed over 800 items available from his firm.
1900 W.A.S. Benson and Co was registered as a limited company.
1911 William Arthur Smith Benson 56 architect, lived in Withyam, Sussex with Venatia Margaret Benson 46[1]
WWI Benson utilised his company for the production of shells for the Ministry of Munitions and equipment for the launching of torpedoes for the Admiralty.
1915 Benson was one of the founder members of the Design and Industries Association.
1920 Benson sold off his company (the company was voluntarily liquidated[2]) and retired to Castle Corner, Manorbier, Wales.
1924 he died on 5 July 1924.
See Also
Sources of Information
- [1] Art History Research