Early 19th Century Mahogany Campaign Officers Desk

Details

Description

A rare and most unusual Federal period mahogany campaign field desk from the early 19th century. Believed to have been … Read more A rare and most unusual Federal period mahogany campaign field desk from the early 19th century. Believed to have been used as a maritime sea captains desk.

Born in the mid-Atlantic region of the United States, circa 1820, of box on stand design, custom converted from a simple work table into a beautiful and functional captain / officers traveling desk. Featuring a stunning highly figured flame mahogany hinged flip-top chest, which lifts open and folds back opens to reveal a fitted interior work / writing stand. The top then morphing into a stepped back bookcase shelf with raised partial gallery, over open niche cubby fitted with two short drawers, ideal for writing instruments, documents, mail, and other correspondence.

A work / writing surface with two disc shaped alternating wood grain inlay and overhanging top, step molded edge, leading to a single frieze drawer with original turned pulls, flanked by pegged mortise tenoned joined squared corner brackets, elegantly rising on four hand turned, ringed and tapering legs. Finely hand-crafted of solid mahogany, with secondary cherry wood and poplar.

Beautiful patina over the whole, warm, rich mahogany coloring and antique glow. Typical wear consistent with age and indicative of use, including light wear which serves to add to the rustic charm and historic depth to this outstanding piece.

Provenance:
Acquired from the estate of the late private owner's fine Raleigh, North Carolina property.
Oral history: Said to have been in the shipmaster / sea captain's quarters aboard a merchant vessel.

Dimensions: (approx)
36.5" High, 26" Wide, 20.25" Deep See less