Liberty & Co
Liberty & Co.
Liberty & Co. (often just called Liberty) is a famous British luxury brand and historic department store known for its distinctive style and high-quality design.
đź“ś A quick history
Founded in 1875 by Arthur Lasenby Liberty
Located on Regent Street, London
Became famous for importing exotic goods from Japan, Persia, and India
Helped popularise the Art Nouveau movement in Britain
🎨 What they’re known for
1. Iconic fabrics
Floral, paisley, and intricate prints
Still widely used in fashion and interiors today
2. “Cymric” silver & metalwork
Designed in the late 1800s
Often by Archibald Knox
Features:
Celtic-inspired patterns
Handcrafted look
Highly collectable antiques
3. Furniture & decorative arts
Arts & Crafts and Art Nouveau styles
Unique, artistic designs rather than mass-produced items
🏛️ The famous store
The current building (opened 1924) is made from old ship timbers
Known for its Tudor-style exterior and wooden interior galleries
Still operating today as one of London’s most distinctive shops
💡 Why “Liberty & Co.” matters in antiques
If you see “Liberty & Co.” stamped on an item, it usually means:
It’s late 19th / early 20th century
Designed in Art Nouveau or Arts & Crafts style
Often more valuable than generic antiques