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Fine Antique Victorian Mahogany Davenport with Pop-Up Stationery Compartment

About the Item

Victorian Figured Mahogany Davenport Desk with Hinged Drum Lid, England, 1870s Elevate your space with this exquisite Victorian figured mahogany Davenport desk, a stunning example of 1870s English craftsmanship that combines functionality with ornate design. Perfect for collectors of antique furniture or anyone seeking a statement piece with historical charm, this desk reflects the Victorian era’s dedication to blending utility with elegance. Crafted from figured mahogany, the desk showcases a rich, reddish-brown hue with a striking flame grain that adds depth and character to its surface. The polished finish enhances the wood’s natural luster, highlighting the intricate figuring while providing a smooth, tactile experience. A unique feature of this Davenport is its hinged drum lid, a cylindrical top that opens to reveal a fitted interior designed for the discerning writer. Inside, an adjustable writing surface can be angled for comfort, accompanied by two small pull-out drawers and various stationery storage sections, including compartments for pens, inkwells, and paper. The top section features a pop-up compartment with multiple slots, ideal for organizing writing materials, a testament to the Victorian focus on practicality and order. The desk is adorned with four functional drawers on the left, each fitted with turned knobs, balanced by dummy drawers on the right to maintain symmetry—a classic Davenport design choice. The elegant silhouette is further enhanced by intricately carved cabriole front supports, likely featuring acanthus leaf motifs, which add a touch of Rococo-inspired flair typical of the period. Sturdy bun feet provide a solid foundation, grounding the desk’s ornate details with a practical base that ensures stability. The combination of the figured mahogany, carved supports, and polished finish showcases the exceptional craftsmanship of the era, making this piece both a functional writing desk and a decorative masterpiece. Measuring 106cm in height when popped up (91.5cm when closed), 55cm in width, and 58.5cm in depth, the desk is perfectly proportioned for smaller spaces, such as a study, bedroom, or sitting room, where it can serve as a writing desk or display piece. Its compact size and versatile design make it a quintessential example of the Davenport, a style originally commissioned in the late 18th century and popularized during the Victorian era for its space-saving functionality. In great condition throughout, the desk shows signs of age and use that enhance its vintage charm. Light scuffs and marks on the surface, along with slight wear to the finish, testify to its history, adding authenticity without compromising its structural integrity or aesthetic appeal. Ideal for a collector of Victorian furniture or anyone looking to add a piece of English heritage to their home, this figured mahogany Davenport is a rare find that embodies the elegance and craftsmanship of the 1870s. Dimensions: Height (Popped Up): 106cm Height (Normal): 91.5cm Width: 55cm Depth: 58.5cm Condition: Great condition with signs of age and use, including light scuffs and marks on the surface and slight wear to the finish, consistent with its vintage status. Provenance: England, 1870s.
  • Similar to:
    Gillows of Lancaster & London (Maker)
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 41.74 in (106 cm)Width: 21.66 in (55 cm)Depth: 23.04 in (58.5 cm)
  • Style:
    Late Victorian (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Mahogany,Carved,Polished
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    Circa 1870
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    Tonbridge, GB
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU9703244139212

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