English Victorian Mahogany Writing Slope Desk with J. Bramah Locks, 19th Century

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English Victorian Mahogany Writing Slope Desk with J. Bramah Locks, 19th Century

About the Item

A beautifully preserved box of exquisite craftsmanship, this delightful Victorian writing slope features gorgeous patinated mahogany that positively glows under the French polished shellac and wax, a fine contrast against the brass inlays and border bindings. The brass plaque on the top is etched but the engraving is rubbed and worn, somewhat illegible now. The box is opened by unlocking the famous Joseph Bramah lock, this stamped along the upper edge "J. Bramah 14 Picadilly Patent". These expensive locks are found almost exclusively on exceptional boxes, many of these being retailed in his lock shop in London. An early velvet baize writing surface has an embossed floral edge decoration. The lower section unlatches with two small brass tabs, opening to show a clean document space with the writing ledge stored along the back wall of this space. This writing ledge is intended to be brought out and inserted into the top, transitioning the box into something of a podium. In the upper storage compartment, typical of these boxes, what appears to be a solid mahogany backing actually hides three tiny drawers behind a hidden wall. This is opened by removing the inkwell on the left and pressing against the edge of the wall, which shifts a tiny spring and pops the mahogany slat free. The quality of the desk is perhaps summed up in the care shown to these drawers, each with exquisite dovetailing with tiny and precise pins and chaotic rosewood drawer facades - notable attention to detail for drawers that are hidden, not on display. In every way a piece that exceeds expectations, this writing slope was crafted for the client that demands perfection. The endless hours of patient work and careful material selection have resulted in a piece that has stood the test of time and remains in nearly the same condition it was in when it left the retailer's shop. Measurements: 20" W x 11 3/8" D x 7 1/4" H [closed] Condition Report: Period inkwells, one with silver cap missing. Retains original writing ledge but the tiny holes in the top where the ledge posts are intended to drop in have been filled with brazed brass. Light scuffs, scratches and ink stains. Early velvet baize with staining, toning and wear, more notably along the crease and edges; tear to baize where the compartment tab hangs.

Dimensions:
Height: 7.25 in (18.42 cm)Width: 20 in (50.8 cm)Depth: 11.38 in (28.91 cm)
Style:
Victorian (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques:
Baize,Brass,Glass,Mahogany,Rosewood
Place of Origin:
England
Period:
19th Century
Date of Manufacture:
circa 19th Century
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Minor fading. See condition notes in description text.
Seller Location:
Shippensburg, PA
Reference Number:
Seller: 911RWP09L | Silla, ltd.1stDibs: LU1059018817472