antique english coromandel lap desk writing slope wedgwood plaques c1860 secret drawers

Description

A quite magnificent lap desk or writing box made from exotic Coromandel and lavishly decorated with top quality engraved brass mounts.
Of course, what makes this example a particularly sought-after example are the five classically themed Wedgwood or Jasperware plaques, all in superb condition (minuscule crazing to the raised white scenes, normal and totally insignificant and mentioned purely for accuracy).
The box comes complete with a replacement working key, the lock signed by the top quality "Bramah, London". The bottom section unfolds to reveal the leather covered writing surface with gold embossed tooling. The top opens to reveal a fitted interior with lidded compartments, a sloped compartment for pen nibs, an inkwell compartment complete with brass topped inkwell, and a removable pen tray.
The top portion of the writing slope opens to reveal a Mahogany lined interior with the inlaid brass maker's plaque for "Field late Stocken - 53 Regent Strt." of course in London. There is a good storage space here for stationery, letters and writing accouterments.
This type of lap desk rarely have secret drawers, this one does however. There is a concealed button the right-hand side in front of the drawers cover, when pushed the cover springs off to reveal three secret drawers, the cover is then snapped back into place.
Dating to the mid nineteenth century, around 1850, this gem is in superb condition and a rare find. While closed, the box measures 14" x 10" x 4 1/4" tall at rear. Stationery and pen for display only and not included.
Item ID: 34745
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Internal Ref: 34745