Osler
Another manufacturer of great prominence in the 19th century was the Birmingham company of F&C Osler. Started in 1807 by Thomas Osler, his two sons Follett and
Clarkson gained notoriety by creating spectacular crystal chandeliers, fountains and furniture, much of it for the Indian sub continent. Their breathtaking and daring
designs also gained admirers at home. In 1850, Osler were commissioned to make the giant crystal fountain for the 1851 Great Exhibition in Hyde Park. The fountain stood 27 feet high and contained 4 tons of crystal.
In 1985 Wilkinson's found and purchased the remnants of the old Osler company. Wilkinson's acquired many of the old working drawings and patterns. These, and their specialist skills have made Wilkinson's one of the world's leading restorers of Osler pieces. Illustrated is an Osler "electrolier" restored by Wilkinson's and currently for sale. Design no. 3004 circa 1900 for 36 lights.Height 360 cm / 141 ¾ in, diameter 173 cm / 68 in.
With the introduction of the electric light bulb in the 1880's, Osler was able to create interesting new designs with the lamps and shades pointing downwards, emphasising this remarkable new method of lighting. Many of Osler's chandeliers were destined for the palaces of the Indian sub-continent. Coloured glass and gold leaf decoration was introduced into the chandelier designs to catch the eye of these wealthy customers. Illustrated is another large Osler chandelier restored by Wilkinson's and currently for sale.
In 1924 F&C Osler joined forces with Faraday & Son Ltd., a company founded by Robert Faraday, brother of the famous inventor Michael Faraday in 1814. With the purchase of the company's remnants, Wilkinson's have acquired a huge library of working drawings, brass and bronze casting patterns. Illustrated are two small items from the Osler & Faraday range that have been recreated using the original moulds and patterns.
Osler & Faraday 2 branch wall light. Model no. OF 6201.Height 47 cm / 18 ½ in, width 28 cm / 11 in.
Osler & Faraday frosted & cut crystal bowl light. Model no. OF 3664.Height 76 cm / 30 in, diameter 38 cm / 15 in.
In 1997, Wilkinson's were commissioned to produce two Osler crystal tables for a middle eastern Royal family. The tables were an original design based closely on old Osler shapes and cutting.The smaller of the two tables illustrated above had over 800 pieces of hand cut crystal, a diameter of 230 cm / 90 ½ in. and weighed 600 kg / 1320 pounds.
