SOLD Diminutive Victorian Lady's Walnut Lap Desk - Gorgeous Condition

Antiques : Accessories : Desks : Lap Desks

 

This exquisite little lapdesk had to have been well loved and carefully cared for by its Victorian lady owner. We have NEVER seen one in better condition than this. It is all original, with delicate workmanship. The walnut wood panels have taken on a warm, deep patina that enriches their beautiful grain. All of the tiny hinges and lock hardware are brass, original and undamaged.

This is such an endearing size: the base is 9 inches by 12 inches; and the tallest part of the slanted top (at the back) is a mere 3 inches tall, slanting down to 2 inches in height (at the front). Absolutely perfect for a dainty Victorian era woman.

Opening the desk, the top panel lifts to reveal a lidded center compartment for pens and other writing instruments, between two deep, square inkwell compartments. Raising the lower outside panel creates a writing surface of 13 inches long and 9-3/4 inches wide, in original felt.

Beneath the felt-covered inner panel is a compartment for paper and other supplies. On the bottom side of this panel is lightly penciled the name ADDIE C. WHITE in beautiful script.

CONDITION: Incredible! There are NO cracks or splits or repairs. The felt writing surface is original, adhered to the boards as tightly as new, with no rips, stains or repairs and no fraying anywhere. Except for the penciled name, there are NO ink stains, stray marks, or signs of use anywhere, even in the ink well compartments.

EXCEPTIONS: Truly minimal. PLEASE LOOK AT THE PHOTOS! (1) There is a white line (not a scratch) on the surface of one side that almost certainly could be buffed out but we have not tried. (2) There is a 1/4-inch triangular bump on the bottom left corner of the top panel, which could be played down with some rubbing, again we have not tried. (This is the only "damage" we could find on the piece.) (3) The INSIDE felt covered wood panel must be handled with strictest care because its only "hinge" is the fabric itself which is extremely fragile; although it is dry, the fabric is intact and has not torn. (4) The key is missing, but the locking mechanism is present and works, and a replacement key can almost certainly be found.

We just can't say enough good things about this lovely little desk. What a wonderful addition to any grouping of 19th Century Victorian library or ladies' accessories.

Item ID: 2009-0060

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IMPORTANT: We will give a CREDIT of $10 towards OUTSIDE-USA Shipping Cost!