William Houghton and Charles Gunn Decorative Boxes

On offer here is an elegant English mahogany writing box dating back to the late 19th century, around 1880. The box, with gently rounded upper corners, was crafted from solid pine wood and then veneered with rich mahogany. At the center of the lid, there is an inlaid oval piece of mother-of-pearl, complemented by a matching mother-of-pearl escutcheon surrounding the keyhole. The box retains its original hinges, locks, and key, all in excellent working condition. When opened, this sophisticated writing box reveals a sloped leather writing surface, crafted from green-dyed sheepskin leather and adorned with a decorative gold-leaf border. The writing surface folds open on both sides, offering hidden storage space beneath for letters and documents. This writing box has been gently cleaned in our workshop, ensuring it is pristine, complete, and fully functional—a timeless piece of craftsmanship ready to be admired and used. An English mahogany writing box, also known as a writing slope or lap desk, has a rich history dating back to the 18th century. These portable writing desks were essential for both personal and professional use, especially during a time when travel and correspondence were becoming increasingly important. Initially, writing boxes were made from oak and often featured intricate carvings. However, by the late 18th century, mahogany became the preferred material due to its durability and attractive appearance[1]. These boxes were designed to be both functional and stylish, often featuring brass fittings, secret...

ABOUT A 19th century portable Mahogany lap desk trimmed in Tiger Maple that opens up to create a writing surface on original velvet. Top and bottom lift open to reveal storage areas...

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