Carved Irish Rosewood and Leather Rise and Fall Davenport, circa 1850

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Carved Irish Rosewood and Leather Rise and Fall Davenport, circa 1850

About the Item

A fine Irish rosewood davenport dating from 1840-1850. Constructed using the finest rosewood veneers. The desktop of serpentine form has an inclined lifting top with inset leather surface. The beautifully constructed rise and fall interior consists of two banks of four graduating drawers flanking central Gothic arches with drawers above. The pigeonhole arches are finely made with detailed column and base. The galleried top formed of pretty spindles representing an architectural balustrade. This ingenious design allows for the fitted interior to rise up when in use by the press of a button and likewise be pushed down for storage if so wished. Both the pigeonholes and drawers provide useful storage. Kneehole opening height is 24 inches. The desktop stands on a base section with arched panels, one of which being a door enclosing four secret drawers. The desktop is further supported to its front by the finest of cabriole legs. Having exceptional carving to their tops and especially the knee section, with naturalistic decoration of petals and blossoms. Terminating on finely carved and detailed claw and ball feet. The whole standing on recessed castors. This desk owes its name to a Captain Davenport who was the first to commission the design, from Gillows of Lancaster near the end of the 18th century. It was also extremely popular through the 19th century and had many different designs. Having dealt in Davenports for thirty years we have seen a decline in their value with the invention of desktop computers, emails and the decline of the written letter. Now like a 'Phoenix Rising From The Ashes' they are rightfully gaining popularity with the invention of tablets and iPads. They are compact, therefore ideal for people short on space. Perfectly angled for writing, typing or reading. Packed with functional storage yet exquisite to look at. We feel this is one of the finest you will find so making it a sound investment and heirloom.

Dimensions:
Height: 35 in (88.9 cm)Width: 27 in (68.58 cm)Depth: 23 in (58.42 cm)
Style:
Early Victorian (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques:
Brass,Leather,Maple,Rosewood
Place of Origin:
Ireland, Republic of
Period:
1840-1849
Date of Manufacture:
circa 1840
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use.
Seller Location:
Heathfield, GB
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU2861319613002