Flock and Feather event raises £12,500

The Flock and Feather Dinner and Auction, a co-production between The Furniture Makers’ Company and The Upholders’ Company, raised over £12,500.

The black-tie function took place at Furniture Makers’ Hall, London on Wednesday 17 November and was attended by 50 people made up of both members and guests of both companies.

The evening was part social event part fundraiser as 14 pieces of exquisitely crafted upholstery were auctioned off after a convivial meal.

The lots were made and donated by former students of Wendy Shorter-Blake, Furniture Maker liveryman and Master Upholder. Upholstery maker Celtheath, which is owned by David Woodward, Upholder liveryman and Master Furniture Maker, also donated pieces for the auction.

James Braxton, antiques expert, auctioneer and broadcaster, was the special guest for the evening and made sure the auction went with a swing.

The funds raised will be divided equally between both companies’ charities.

Wendy Shorter-Blake, Master of the Upholders, said: “The Upholders and Furniture Makers work to serve the interests of the furniture and furnishings industry and I am delighted that this auction came together as a joint venture. As Masters of our respected Companies, we have developed a working relationship over the years and between us we have collected various pieces of upholstered furniture in need of restoration.

“In 2019 we decided to pool our resources and I asked some of my past students to take on a project, donating their time and expertise in restoring these pieces. Today’s auction was the culmination of that work and the 14 pieces offered for auction were amazing and raised over £12,500 for our respective charities.”