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A very rare rosewood writing slope/ lap desk
of c 1790. The rosewood is framed with
sycamore with
penwork decoration of stylised foliage. The
centre panel has a hand tinted print of classical
inspiration framed in gold leaf and pen and ink
decoration.
The slope has a working lock and key.
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The top dimensions are 9.5 inches wide by
7.75 inches. The sides taper from 3.25 inches at
the back. The composition of the top although
subject to wear is still exquisite. The sycamore
with its penwork decoration contrasts with the
dark rich colour of the rosewood.
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Detail of the print showing a classical lady
and a child. The varnish on this is unevenly worn
and so is the picture. This is to be expected
given the fact that is on paper surrounded by
gold leaf and has had two hundred years of wear.
However it retains its charm and fortunately it
has not been subjected to re painting. |
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Detail showing the stylized penwork
decoration of the surround. Some parts of the
surround are worn and the decoration smudged. You
can see the worn parts on the main picture of the
top. The worst wear is on the upper right hand
corner and the left side. The overall effect
is that of subtle beauty and style.
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Inside the box has the original baize writing
surface, and compartments for pens an inkwell and
a chalk/sand shaker. The top is lined with
the original blue paper, which shows some
staining as would be expected after more than two
hundred years. |
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Close up of the pounce pot and inkwell These
are Sheffield plate..
Pounce, a fine absorbent powder was used before
the invention of blotting paper to absorb excess
of ink. |
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The lock is a later (Victorian)
replacement. It has a working key. |
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The inside of the box under the writing
surface. The box is slightly warped (see top
picture) on the right side. Keeping it locked
when not in use will help it retain its shape. This
is a real antique in unrestored condition.
Restoration would destroy its integrity.
It is for a true connoisseur/collector.
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