Burr Walnut Twin Pedestal Desk from Royal Druce & Co., London, United Kingdom, 1840s

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Antiques of London This is far more than a desk; it is a remarkable piece of British history, created by … Read more Antiques of London This is far more than a desk; it is a remarkable piece of British history, created by one of London’s most prestigious 19th-century furniture makers: Druce & Co. of Baker Street, London. Established in the mid-1800s, Druce & Co. earned a reputation as master upholsterers, cabinet makers, and house furnishers to the elite. Their clientele included the Prince of Wales, European royalty, aristocracy, and embassies, cementing their place among the highest social circles of Victorian London. To own a Druce & Co. piece was to possess a symbol of refinement, quality, and status. Among the desk’s most distinguished features are the brass drawer handles decorated with feathers — the heraldic badge of the heir apparent to the British throne. This emblem, historically associated with members of the royal household and those of significant standing, marks the piece as one of elevated importance and distinguished provenance. Its presence speaks to the grandeur and exclusivity of its origins. Adding to its uniqueness, this desk comes with its original key, a detail of extraordinary rarity. In the six years we have been trading, we have never encountered a key of this type, making it a truly exceptional survival and an integral part of its historical significance. The desk itself is crafted in exquisitely figured burr walnut, the grain enhanced by a traditional French polish that brings out its natural depth and warmth. The writing surface is fitted with hand-dyed leather, sympathetically restored to preserve its original character while ensuring it remains practical for use. The result is a seamless blend of historic authenticity and renewed beauty. This desk also retains two original Druce & Co. labels. The first, found inside the drawer, reads: “from Messrs. Druce & Co., Upholsterers, Cabinet Makers, and House Agents, 68–69 Baker Street, Portman Square.” The second, located beneath the desk, is a storage and transport label that charts its long-preserved heritage. Such surviving labels are exceptionally rare and provide invaluable confirmation of the maker, provenance, and authenticity. Desks of this calibre, with provenance from Druce & Co., original labels intact, and fittings bearing the badge of the heir apparent, are extraordinarily scarce. Few survive in such conditions, and even fewer carry such direct links to one of London’s foremost cabinet makers serving royalty and the aristocracy. This is a museum-quality piece of 19th-century English furniture, celebrated for its royal connection, exceptional craftsmanship, and documented heritage. More than a desk, it is a work of art and a historical artefact — an investment-grade treasure that embodies the grandeur of Victorian London, the mastery of Druce & Co., and the enduring prestige of royal association. Please carefully examine the pictures to see the condition before purchasing, as they form part of the . If you have any questions, please message us. Measurements Height - 76 cm Width - 124 cm Depth - 76 cm Kneehole height - 59 cm Kneehole width - 42 cm Kneehole depth - 44 cm Please note all measurements are taken to the widest point of the item. Please don't hesitate to ask us if you need any other measures. This piece is attributed to the mentioned designer/maker. It has no attribution mark and no
official proof of authenticity,
however it is well documented in design history. I take full responsibility for any authenticity



issues arising from misattribution See less