Summary:
• Item: Metamorphic Writing Table
• Circa: 1900
• Period: Edwardian
• Provenance: America
• Style: Art Nouveau
• Wood: Solid mahogany
• Size: 2ft 2¼” wide x 1ft 4” deep
• Attaché case crocodile effect lining
• Metamorphic hinged table top
• Central leather wallet & buckle
• Multiple interior compartments
• Multiple stationery holders (paper, pens, clips etc.)
• Inset ink well cases
• Hinged letter tray compartment
• Original working lock and key
• Splayed legs
• Connecting stretcher
• Stunning colour
• Extremely functional
• Excellent condition
• Very rare
• Free 14 day UK returns policy
This is a very unusual, rare and superb quality antique Edwardian Art Nouveau colonial metamorphic mahogany writing table / desk, circa 1900, in very good condition. Used in the British colonies, this table was designed when travelling to provide a good quality and high specification mobile writing base. The top section lifts upwards; it is connected to two metal side-sliding brackets, which automatically slides the writing base forward. The interior is lined with attaché case crocodile effect lining and also the original leather compartments. The shaped top is hinged and opens up to reveal a forward extending writing base flanked by a plethora of writing holders and compartments. The underside of the lid boasts a centralised concertina leather wallet compartment with a fold-over locking buckle; a sprung clip to secure paperwork on the left hand side and two picture frames on the right hand side where photos of loved ones could be displayed (or other memorandums). Further below is the main writing surface that incorporates an attaché case crocodile-effect writing surface. Towards the back of the writing table are a bank of stationery holders to house paper clips and pens. Ink well compartments flank each side of the writing table. The inkwells are housed in a leather box inside a lockable metal compartment; this prevents the ink running when in transit. The writing table features the original working lever lock, including a key. The table is supported by four pretty shaped legs, which are connected by a cross-stretcher for added strength. The design of the writing desk is is typical of the Art Nouveau movement, which was extremely fashionable from the 1880’s until the First World War. This is a truly classic design from the late Victorian / early Edwardian period. All in all, this is a very pretty and superb quality-writing table.
This item would compliment any home, office or library and is ideal as either a library table writing table or desk or even a dressing table. It is an extremely unusual and rare example of this type of furniture. So, don’t miss out your chance to own a lovely item!
This item features a rich dark mahogany colour. As it boasts the original polish (which has been revived), it has a fantastic colour and patination; this can only be achieved through the years of care and cleaning it has received. This truly is a very beautiful and rare item with quality construction throughout. It is rare to see one in such good condition. The item would certainly grace any home or office and is a great investment, as it is extremely functional.
Condition Report:
The writing table is in very good working condition. As it boasts the original polish (which has been revived), it has a fantastic deep dark mahogany colour and patination; this can only be achieved through the years of care and cleaning it has received. The polish to the mahogany writing table is therefore in excellent condition. There are no splits to the to the top, sides or frame of the table. The hinged lid is not warped and closes comfortably together in order for it to be locked with the original steel lever lock and working key. The leather interior is original; as such, there are nominal old use marks and wear and tear to the leather. The interior also features the original leather interior including inkwells and inkpots. The writing surface has been newly re-lined with attaché case crocodile effect material. This lining is clean; there is no damage, stains or rips to this lining. This is a single piece desk; it does not dismantle into sections. The table stands firm on the ground; it does not wobble. This item is solid in joint and ready to use.
Dimensions:
External height = 79.3cm or 31¼” or 2ft 7¼”
External width (feet) = 65.1cm or 25⅝” or 2ft 1⅝”
External width (body) = 66.7cm or 26¼” or 2ft 2¼”
External depth = 40.8cm or 16” or 1ft 4”
Writing height = 70.2cm or 27⅝” or 2ft 3⅝”
Knee height = 67cm or 26⅜” or 2ft 2⅜”
Terms & Conditions:
Before you purchase this item, please ensure you have read and are in agreement with our Terms & Conditions of Sale. If you have any questions regarding our Terms & Conditions of Sale, please contact us to discuss them, before purchasing this item.
Ref. Writing Table 26