Arts & Crafts Oak Writing Desk, Possibly by Maples

A very attractive & unusual Arts & Crafts desk made from golden quarter-sawn oak.

The back superstructure has a fall-front writing slope flanked by two leaded glass doors all finished with very unusual stylish decorative hinges and lock plate. There is a lock and key for the fall-front which cleverly operates a 'Stone's Patent' locking system for the rest of the desk. The fall-front opens to reveal a black leather writing surface and and a useful arrangement of various sized pigeon holes and drawers. There are also two slides which can be pulled out from above the pedestal drawers to provide extra surface space.

The locking system works by closing the writing slope, this pushes in a closing rod that connects to two further locking rods in the base pedestals, if the writing slope is locked with the key then it is not possible to open the rest of the desk until the slope is unlocked and opened. At the moment the rod on the left pedestal seems to come out of alignment and so the left side does not lock whilst the right does - this actually might be more convenient to some people though!

There are some slight marks/scuffs as expected for it's age, there are ink marks inside and the leather to the flap is worn. The decorative hinges to the bureau flap have each lost a heart but could be replaced with copies.

Please do not hesitate to contact us for more information or photos.

Size

The approximate overall sizes are:

Width - 129.5cm (51in)

Depth - 53.3cm (21in)

Height - 119.5cm (47 ? in)

The drop flap is 54.2cm wide x 38cm deep (21 ?in x 15in) and each of the slides are 26cm wide x 35.5cm deep (10 ¼in x 14in)

Ref: 0197

Delivery can be arranged to most UK mainland destinations for £95 and is usually within 31 days.

When buying it is important appreciate antiques have long histories of daily use and as such, over time they gain minor scratches, marks, knocks, shrinkage splits, signs of old woodworm, lifts and losses to veneer, which combine with care and years of polishing to create an individual character and patina. We describe the main flaws and those that fall outside of this bracket but cannot describe each marks separately and therefore suggest you do take the time to request extra photos. We do offer a 14 day money back guarantee if you are unhappy with your purchase but cannot refund the return shipping cost. If you are not sure please do not buy without clarifying or take the view that the only way to have it as near to new as possible is to have it fully and comprehensively restored.

For delivery we use a small carrier experience in carrying antique furniture. Delivery is usually within 31 days and the carrier will make arrangements with you directly. We can provide contact details of other carriers if required.